Main Entry:

ad·verse

Pronunciation:

\ad-ˈvərs, ˈad-ˌ\

Function:

adjective

Etymology:

Middle English, from Anglo-French advers, from Latin adversus, past participle of advertere

Date:

14th century

1: acting against or in a contrary direction : hostile <hindered by adverse winds>2 a: opposed to one's interests <an adverse verdict> <heard testimony adverse to their position> ; especially : unfavorable <adverse criticism> b: causing harm : harmful <adverse drug effects>3archaic : opposite in position

— ad·verse·ly adverb

— ad·verse·ness noun