noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
Refers to a person who is not a member of the military or police; often used in political or legal contexts to emphasize civilian control or status.
Civilian control is one of the fundamental principles of democracy.
He participated in the government as a civilian, not as a military officer.
The new defense minister is a person with a civilian background.
In this country, it is common for a civilian to head the defense ministry.