Meaning & Definition of word "Enemy"

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    Enemy

    /ˈɛnəmi/

    noun:

    • 1. A person or group that is actively opposed or hostile to someone or something.
      • Example: During the war, they faced their enemy bravely on the battlefield.
    • 2. A hostile nation or power.
      • Example: The governments of the two countries regarded each other as enemies.
    • 3. A thing that harms or opposes; a source of danger or conflict.
      • Example: Pollution is the enemy of a healthy environment.

    Etymology

    Middle English, from Old French 'enemi', from Latin 'inimicus', meaning 'hostile' or 'unfriendly'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    frenemy:

    A person with whom one is friendly despite a fundamental dislike or rivalry.

    enemy territory:

    An area controlled by an enemy force.

    make an enemy:

    To create hostility or opposition.

    know your enemy:

    To understand the strengths and weaknesses of an opponent.

    Related Words

    hostility:

    Unfriendly or antagonistic behavior.

    rivalry:

    Competition for the same objective or superiority.

    conflict:

    A serious disagreement or argument.

    adversary:

    One's opponent in a contest or dispute.

    Slang Meanings of enemy

    Meaning: Arch-nemesis

    Example Sentence: He's my arch-nemesis in this rivalry.

    Meaning: Hater

    Example Sentence: She's got so many haters on social media.