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 fictional residence in the 1950s film was the brainchild of production designer Robert Boyle and was named for the movie’s antagonist, Phillip Vandamm, played by actor James Mason. — Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 15 Sep. 2026

Mahomes has largely been a Broncos antagonist since making his first NFL start in Denver to close the 2017 season. — Nick Kosmider, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026

Colman, in stringy auburn hair, makes a crisply delectable antagonist (who is really, of course, on Ian’s side). — Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 5 Sep. 2026

In the Harry Potter movies, multiple actors portray the antagonist at various ages. — Iris Kwok, Los Angeles Times, 4 Sep. 2026