Synonyms of enemy

enemy

noun

ˈe-nə-mē 

as in opponent

one that is hostile toward another

a beloved minister with no known enemies

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of enemy

Federal law prohibits armed federal agents from conducting activities in and around polling places unless force is necessary to repel armed enemies of the United States. — Ana Goñi-Lessan, Sun Sentinel, 22 Oct. 2026

Cue the longstanding rancor … Motorists and cyclists seem to be natural enemies. — Aj Willingham, AJC.com, 22 Oct. 2026

In September, Ahmed Dirie, who chairs the executive committee of the Israel and Somaliland Friendship Association, told The Jerusalem Post that the two governments shared an enemy in the Houthis and could collaborate to defeat the group. — Mahbub Abdillahi, Christian Science Monitor, 22 Oct. 2026

This seems to be a case of giving aid and comfort to the enemy. — Chicago Tribune, 22 Oct. 2026