1. people or groups engaged in fighting or warfare
Usage: plural form of combatant

Examples

• The two combatants faced each other in the boxing ring.
• International law protects civilians from being targeted like combatants.
• The peace treaty was signed by representatives of both combatants.
• Medical personnel are not considered combatants under the Geneva Convention.
• The combatants agreed to a temporary ceasefire.
• Enemy combatants were held as prisoners of war.
• The referee separated the combatants after the illegal move.