1. the status or policy of a nation that does not actively participate in a war, though it may provide support to one or more belligerent parties
Usage: international law and diplomacy; distinct from neutrality, which implies impartiality toward all parties

Examples

• During World War II, the United States maintained nonbelligerency for several years before formally entering the conflict.
• The country declared nonbelligerency while secretly supplying weapons to the allied forces.
• Nonbelligerency allowed the nation to avoid direct military engagement while still supporting its allies diplomatically.
• International law recognizes nonbelligerency as a distinct legal status between peace and active warfare.
• The government's policy of nonbelligerency was controversial among citizens who wanted stronger support for the cause.