Definition of "noncombatants" []

• Plural form of noncombatant. (noun)

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• "It erodes the distinction between combatants and noncombatants, which is critical to the theory of justice in war (jus in bello)."
• "Attacks against noncombatants, that is, civilians and military personnel who at the time of the incident were unarmed and/or not on duty, are judged as terrorist attacks."
• "We are to believe that these "noncombatants" are out of harm's way and free from casualties by roadside bombs, suicide bombers or open hostilities."