a brave or experienced soldier or fighter, especially from earlier times
The medieval warrior polished his steel helmet before battle.
Many samurai were legendary Japanese warriors skilled with the sword.
✦ From Middle English werriour, borrowed from Old French guerrier, ultimately from Proto-Germanic *werra (“conflict, war”).
someone who shows great courage and determination while fighting for a cause or overcoming difficulties
After months of chemotherapy, she proved herself a true warrior against cancer.
He is a social justice warrior who organizes rallies every weekend.
✦ Same historical root as the literal sense: ultimately from Old French guerrier meaning “fighter.”
