Pugnacity/pʌɡˈnæsəti/ Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Argumentative Nature Pugnacity highlights a person's strong desire to argue, sometimes causing trouble. His pugnacity at the meeting caused a heated debate. Pro Tip 2/3Not Physical Conflict 'Pugnacity' involves arguing or verbal fighting, not necessarily physical brawls. The pugnacity of her speech revealed her opposition. Pro Tip 3/3Negative Connotation Pugnacity often implies a negative judgment about someone's quarrelsome attitude. Her pugnacity made her unpopular with her colleagues.