Adversary – Definition & Meaning

The term “adversary” is an important word in the English language that is often used to describe a person or entity that is opposed to another. It is an essential word that is used in various contexts, including legal, political, and personal relationships. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of the word “adversary.”

Definitions

An adversary is defined as a person or group that opposes or competes with another. It is someone who is an opponent in a conflict or competition. Adversaries can be individuals, organizations, or even countries. An adversary can also refer to an enemy or foe.

Origin

The word adversary comes from the Latin word “adversarius,” which means “opponent” or “adversary.” The word has been in use in the English language since the 14th century.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, an adversary is “a person or group that opposes or attacks; an enemy or opponent.” Merriam-Webster defines an adversary as “one that contends with, opposes, or resists.”

Associations

The term adversary is commonly associated with legal proceedings, where it refers to the opposing party in a lawsuit. It is also used in military and political contexts to refer to opposing forces or countries.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of adversary include enemy, opponent, rival, antagonist, and foe.

Antonyms

The antonyms of adversary include ally, friend, supporter, and partner.

The same root words

Some words that share the same root as adversary include adversity, adverse, and adversarial.

Example Sentences

1. The two companies were adversaries in the marketplace, constantly trying to outdo each other.
2. The defendant’s lawyer cross-examined the plaintiff’s witnesses, trying to weaken their testimony.
3. The two countries were adversaries in the Cold War, each trying to gain an advantage over the other.
4. Despite being adversaries in the courtroom, the lawyers were able to maintain a professional relationship outside of work.
5. The athlete’s main adversary was his own self-doubt, which he had to overcome in order to succeed.