conscientious objector
[ kon-shee-en-shuh s uh b-jek-ter, kon-see‐ ]
/ ˌkɒn ʃiˈɛn ʃəs əbˈdʒɛk tər, ˌkɒn si‐ /
noun
a person who refuses on moral or religious grounds to serve in the armed forces or to bear arms in a military conflict.
Origin of conscientious objector
First recorded in 1820–30
Words nearby conscientious objector
conscience clause,
conscience money,
conscience-stricken,
conscientious,
conscientious objection,
conscientious objector,
conscionable,
conscious,
conscious uncoupling,
consciousness,
consciousness raising
British Dictionary definitions for conscientious objector
conscientious objector
noun
a person who refuses to serve in the armed forces on the grounds of conscience
Cultural definitions for conscientious objector
conscientious objector
A person who refuses to render military service on the grounds of moral principle or religious belief. A CO must demonstrate a sincere, active, and long-standing objection in order to receive an exemption from armed service. The United States and some European governments officially recognize CO status; approved COs are usually required to perform social service or noncombat military service in place of armed duty. (See also draft, draft dodger, and Selective Service System.)