Meaning & Definition
noun
A person or entity that competes with another.
The two companies have been rivals in the tech industry for decades.
One who strives for the same thing as another; a competitor.
She trained hard to beat her rival in the upcoming marathon.
An enemy or opponent.
The rival football teams faced off in the championship final.
verb
To compete with someone or something in a particular field.
Their brand aims to rival the leading names in luxury fashion.
To equal or surpass in quality or excellence.
The new athlete's performance could rival that of seasoned professionals.
Etymology
From Latin 'rivalis', meaning 'one who shares a stream' or 'one who competes'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
rivalry:
The state of being a rival; competition.
rival to:
Competing with someone for superiority.
rival ideas:
Conflicting or opposing ideas.
Slang Meanings
Frenemy
They act friendly, but they are actually rivals—total frenemy vibes.
Adversary
You have to watch out for your adversary in the game; they want to win just as much.