Synonyms of antagonist

antagonist

noun

an-ˈta-gə-nist 

1

as in enemy

one that is hostile toward another

please name the novel's hero and his antagonist

Synonyms & Similar Words

• enemy
• opponent
• foe
• hostile
• adversary
• archenemy
• attacker
• rival
• nemesis
• competitor
• archfoe
• combatant
• invader
• assailant
• bête noire
• bane
• ill-wisher
• emulator

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• friend
• fellow
• buddy
• pal
• partner
• chum
• accomplice
• ally
• musketeer
• collaborator
• mate
• colleague
• compadre
• crony
• hearty
• comrade
• abettor
• adherent
• amigo
• friendly
• disciple
• benefactor
• hail-fellow
• sympathizer
• supporter
• hail-fellow-well-met
• follower
• hobnobber
• exponent
• confederate
• backer
• well-wisher

2

as in opponent

one that takes a position opposite another in a competition or conflict

his antagonist in the boxing match

Synonyms & Similar Words

• opponent
• foe
• rival
• adversary
• competitor
• contestant
• enemy
• nemesis
• match
• archenemy
• attacker
• combatant
• assailant
• invader
• equal
• curse
• bane
• bête noire

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• partner
• ally
• accomplice
• champion
• advocate
• supporter
• proponent
• confederate
• exponent
• sympathizer

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of antagonist

The antagonist isn't just a single person or entity, but an entire system designed to crush any life out of him, all for the entertainment of the masses. — Jeff Spry, Space.com, 14 Oct. 2026

But having to navigate designing a hopeful film, one devoid of an antagonist that also heralds a positive view of AI, was a challenge in its own right. — Corbin Bolies, Variety, 9 Oct. 2026

Márquez was a chief protagonist — or antagonist, depending on your perspective — during his days as captain of Mexico. — Felipe Cardenas, New York Times, 4 Oct. 2026

Despite Nas emerging as one of the season’s primary antagonists, Kelly doesn’t necessarily view him as a straightforward villain. — Lexi Carson, HollywoodReporter, 2 Oct. 2026