enmity
Enmity (noun) means a deep-seated feeling of hostility or ill will between people or groups. Example: “Years of enmity between the two families finally came to a head.”
How to use enmity
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishStrong mutual hostility, as between enemies.
Don't confuse with "amity" (friendship) — they're near-opposites that look and sound similar.
Word forms
enmities plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Years of _____ between the two families finally came to a head.
Etymology
From Old French enemisté, from Latin inimicus, "enemy".
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for enmity
See all rhymes for enmity →Frequently asked questions
What does “enmity” mean?
The word “enmity” means a deep-seated feeling of hostility or ill will between people or groups. In plain terms, strong mutual hostility, as between enemies.
How do you pronounce “enmity”?
“Enmity” is pronounced EHN-mih-tee (/ˈɛn.mɪ.ti/ in IPA).
How do you use “enmity” in a sentence?
Here is “enmity” used in a sentence: “Years of enmity between the two families finally came to a head.”
What is another word for “enmity”?
Words with a similar meaning to “enmity” include animosity, animus, antagonism, antipathy, enemyhood and enemyness.
What is the opposite of “enmity”?
The opposite of “enmity” — its antonyms — is amity.
What part of speech is “enmity”?
“Enmity” is a noun.
Where does the word “enmity” come from?
The word “enmity” comes from Latin. From Old French enemisté, from Latin inimicus, "enemy".