enmity

IPA

Dictionary definition of enmity

A deep and typically mutual feeling of hostility, hatred, or animosity between individuals, groups, or entities.
"The enmity between the siblings was rooted in their childhood conflicts."

Detailed meaning of enmity

It describes a state of intense opposition and animus, often rooted in longstanding grievances or conflicts. Enmity goes beyond simple disagreement or dislike; it signifies a profound and enduring hostility that can result in ongoing tension, rivalry, or even open hostility. This term is often used in the context of interpersonal relationships, international conflicts, or longstanding feuds where the parties involved harbor strong and deeply rooted negative feelings towards each other. Enmity underscores the idea of a severe and lasting antagonism that can be challenging to resolve or overcome.

Example sentences of enmity

1. The enmity between the two neighboring countries has lasted for centuries.
2. His betrayal created enmity that could never be mended.
3. The politician's speech only served to fuel the enmity among various factions.
4. They decided to put aside their enmity and work together for a common cause.
5. The siblings' rivalry turned into deep enmity over the years.
6. Her enmity towards him was so intense that she could not stand to be in the same room.

History and etymology of enmity

The noun 'enmity' has its roots in Middle English and Old French. It can be traced back to the Old French word 'enemi,' which was derived from the Latin 'inimicus.' In Latin, 'inimicus' was formed by combining 'in-' (meaning 'not') with 'amicus' (meaning 'friend'). Therefore, 'enmity' originally conveyed the idea of 'not being a friend' or 'hostility.' Over time, it evolved in Middle English to represent a deep and typically mutual feeling of hostility, hatred, or animosity between individuals, groups, or entities. 'Enmity' remains a powerful word to describe intense and lasting conflicts or rivalries, highlighting the enduring nature of such hostilities.

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Further usage examples of enmity

1. The historical enmity between the two families is the subject of many local legends.
2. The treaty aimed to end the enmity and bring about reconciliation between the warring nations.
3. The enmity in her eyes was unmistakable as she glared at him.
4. Years of competition in business turned into personal enmity between the two entrepreneurs.
5. The conflict was not just a disagreement, but a clash rooted in ancient enmity.
6. Enmity often breeds isolation and bitterness among individuals.
7. The enmity among the rival gangs has led to an increase in violence in the area.
8. Their enmity was born from a misunderstanding that neither was willing to clear up.
9. The novel's plot revolves around the enmity between two powerful families vying for control.
10. The enmity between the two rival gangs led to frequent clashes.
11. Years of enmity finally gave way to a fragile peace treaty.
12. Their enmity dated back to a childhood rivalry.
13. Enmity simmered beneath the surface of their polite conversation.
14. The enmity between the feuding families was a local legend.
15. The enmity in the workplace created a toxic atmosphere.
16. He tried to mend the enmity with an apology, but it fell flat.
17. The political debate was marked by intense enmity.
18. The enmity between the nations was a legacy of past conflicts.
19. Enmity among siblings often arises from shared history.
20. A history of enmity made their collaboration challenging.
21. The enmity between the superheroes and villains was legendary.
22. Enmity dissolved as they found common ground in their cause.
23. The enmity between the competitors fueled their determination.
24. The enmity between neighbors over property lines led to lawsuits.