antonym
1 synonym and 1 antonym for antonym, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A word whose meaning is the opposite of another word's meaning.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Antonyms
synonym
How to use antonym
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
antonym of
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gradable antonym
The word is neutral and is used in everyday teaching as well as in the study of meaning.
Etymology
English took the word from French antonyme, which was formed on the pattern of the earlier synonyme. It became well established in English largely through Charles John Smith's 1867 book on synonyms and antonyms, and it can be analysed as ant- plus -onym.
Full origin of antonym →Frequently asked questions
What is an antonym?
An antonym is a word that means the opposite of another word. For example, large and small are antonyms.
What is the opposite of an antonym?
The opposite of an antonym is a synonym, which is a word with a similar meaning to another word.
How do you pronounce antonym?
It is pronounced AN-tuh-nim, with the stress on the first syllable.
