nonlethal

adjective

non·​le·​thal ˌnän-ˈlē-thəl How to pronounce nonlethal (audio)
: not lethal : not capable of causing death
a nonlethal gas
nonlethal weapons
a nonlethal dose of venom

Examples of nonlethal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
If tumors are small enough to be considered nonlethal, doctors should work with patients to monitor and continually assess their risk. Kaan Ozcan, NBC news, 30 Sep. 2025 In response, the state sent in a strike team tasked with using nonlethal methods to chase the wolves away. Sacbee.com, 18 Sep. 2025 The group recognizes the need to control invasive species, but prefers nonlethal methods of control. Lauren Sommer, NPR, 15 Sep. 2025 Earlier that year, a journalistic investigation that revealed the defense ministry was purchasing food for the army at inflated prices compelled the parliament to pass a law to ensure transparency in nonlethal defense procurements. Daria Kaleniuk, Foreign Affairs, 3 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for nonlethal

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nonlethal was in 1625

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Cite this Entry

“Nonlethal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nonlethal. Accessed 1 Nov. 2025.

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