Definition of enmitynext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun enmity differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of enmity are animosity, animus, antagonism, antipathy, hostility, and rancor. While all these words mean "deep-seated dislike or ill will," enmity suggests positive hatred which may be open or concealed.

an unspoken enmity

In what contexts can animosity take the place of enmity?

The meanings of animosity and enmity largely overlap; however, animosity suggests intense ill will and vindictiveness that threaten to kindle hostility.

animosity that led to revenge

When is it sensible to use animus instead of enmity?

While in some cases nearly identical to enmity, animus adds to animosity the implication of strong prejudice.

objections devoid of personal animus

How are the words antipathy and antagonism related as synonyms of enmity?

Both antipathy and antagonism imply a natural or logical basis for one's hatred or dislike, antipathy suggesting repugnance, a desire to avoid or reject, and antagonism suggesting a clash of temperaments leading readily to hostility.

a natural antipathy for self-seekers
antagonism between the brothers

When is hostility a more appropriate choice than enmity?

While the synonyms hostility and enmity are close in meaning, hostility suggests an enmity showing itself in attacks or aggression.

hostility between the two nations

Where would rancor be a reasonable alternative to enmity?

The words rancor and enmity can be used in similar contexts, but rancor is especially applied to bitter brooding over a wrong.

rancor filled every line of his letters

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of enmity The enmity is just as strong here, and the passion too. James McNicholas, New York Times, 23 Feb. 2026 Indignation in the face of injustice, yes—but not enmity. Emily Chamlee-Wright, Washington Post, 6 Feb. 2026 Winslow’s notable public enmity toward the current president, whose name will not cross his lips today, has been evident ever since the two-time destroyer of worlds first sought power. Fred Schruers, Rolling Stone, 26 Jan. 2026 Indeed, their body language and working relationship belies nothing of the boorish, antagonistic dynamic between Governor Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio, whose enmity risked lives (as when Cuomo held up a mass Covid vaccine site in New York due to his beef with de Blasio). Literary Hub, 15 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for enmity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for enmity
Noun
  • But the chancellor struggled to imagine how such an end of hostilities could be reached that would satisfy the White House.
    Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 27 Apr. 2026
  • The hostility to literature felt by some of the architects of the Red Scare is well established.
    Charlie Tyson, The Atlantic, 27 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Brady didn’t appear to hold a grudge and could be seen laughing during the rest of Ross’ set.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 29 Apr. 2026
  • Hannah Alline – Feral A man (Ethan Embry) with a grudge against women crashes a bachelorette party prepared to brutally kill everyone there.
    Richard Newby, HollywoodReporter, 27 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • In the centuries since colonists waged war against the crown, American’s attitudes toward the royals have shifted from hatred to adoration.
    Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 29 Apr. 2026
  • But the War on Terror persisted and mutated into nightmares in Iraq and Afghanistan, and then Syria, which unleashed that darkness in the form of terrorist states and a refugee crisis that spread anti-Muslim and anti-migrant hatred to Europe, the United States, and beyond.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 29 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The state said Hollis was wrong for harboring bitterness toward him.
    Carol Marbin Miller, Miami Herald, 27 Apr. 2026
  • In addition to the scallions, half a cup of whole parsley leaves adds a grassy depth and pleasant bitterness to this salad.
    Martha Stewart, Martha Stewart, 19 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Enmity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/enmity. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

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