belligerence

plural belligerences · alternative belligerency

1. countableuncountableThe state of being belligerent; aggressive inclination to war or violence.First known use 1804

   A closer look at North Korean history reveals what Pyongyang’s leaders really want their near-farcical belligerence to achieve — a reminder to the world that North Korea exists, and an impression abroad that its leaders are irrational and unpredictable.

   2013 April 9, Andrei Lankov, “Stay Cool. Call North Korea’s Bluff.”, in New York Times

   Antonyms: nonbelligerency

2. countableuncountableA feeling of aggression and hostility, characterized by an urge for confrontation and provocation.