opponent

¹op·po·nent

noun \ə-ˈpō-nənt\

Definition of OPPONENT

1

: one that takes an opposite position (as in a debate, contest, or conflict)

2

: a muscle that opposes or counteracts and limits the action of another

Examples of OPPONENT

1. She is a formidable opponent in the race for senator.
2. The team's opponents have not lost a game this season.
3. He knocked out his opponent in the third round.

Origin of OPPONENT

Latin opponent-, opponens, present participle of opponere

First Known Use: 1560

Related to OPPONENT

Synonyms: adversary, antagonist, foe, rival

Antonyms: amigo, friend

Related Words: equal, match; enemy; archenemy, nemesis; competitor, contestant; bane, bête noire, curse; assailant, attacker, combatant, invader

Near Antonyms: accomplice, ally, confederate, partner; advocate, champion, exponent, proponent, supporter, sympathizer

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Rhymes with OPPONENT

component, deponent, exponent, proponent