Definition

Noun: A person who avoids compulsory military service, typically through illegal means such as fleeing the country, falsifying documents, or claiming fraudulent exemptions.

Usage

The term "draft dodger" specifically refers to an individual who evades conscription. It is often used in historical, legal, and political contexts to describe those who avoided service during periods of mandatory military drafts.

Examples

• During the Vietnam War, some American citizens became draft dodgers by moving to Canada.
• The government implemented stricter penalties for draft dodgers.
• He was labeled a draft dodger after he failed to report for his mandatory service.

Advanced Usage

The term carries a strong negative connotation, implying cowardice or a lack of patriotism from the perspective of those who support the draft. From the evader's perspective, it may be seen as an act of conscience or political protest.

Variants and Related Words

• Draft evasion (n): The act or offense of avoiding compulsory military service.
• Conscientious objector (n): A person who refuses to serve in the military due to deeply held moral or religious beliefs. This is often a legal status, unlike "draft dodger," which implies illegality.

Synonyms

• Slacker (informal, historical)
• Evader
• Deserter (specifically refers to one who leaves the military after enlisting, not before)

Antonyms

• Draftee
• Conscript
• Servicemember

Noun

1. someone who is drafted and illegally refuses to serve