| 1. | the killing of civilians in a military attack. |
| 2. | any damage incidental to an activity. |

| collateral damage n. Unintended damage, injuries, or deaths caused by an action, especially unintended civilian casualties caused by a military operation. |
| Main Entry: | collateral damage |
| Part of Speech: | n |
| Definition: | unintentional harm to persons or property as the result of military action |