opponent

1 one that takes a position opposite another in a competition or conflict in martial arts, before the match begins, always bow to your opponent Synonyms of opponent adversary, antagonist, foe, rival Words Related to opponent equal, match; enemy; archenemy, nemesis; competitor, contestant; bane, bête noire, curse; assailant, attacker, combatant, invader Near Antonyms of opponent accomplice, ally, confederate, partner; advocate, champion, exponent, proponent, supporter, sympathizer

2 one that is hostile toward another the senator has many political opponents who would love to ruin his career Synonyms of opponent adversary, antagonist, foe, hostile, enemyWords Related to opponent archenemy, archfoe, nemesis; ill-wisher; bane, bête noire; assailant, attacker, combatant, invader; competitor, emulator, rivalNear Antonyms of opponent buddy, chum, compadre, crony, fellow, hail-fellow, hail-fellow-well-met, hearty, hobnobber, mate, musketeer, pal; abettor (also abetter), accomplice, ally, collaborator, colleague, comrade, confederate, friendly, partner; adherent, disciple, follower; backer, benefactor, exponent, supporter, sympathizer, well-wisherAntonyms of opponent amigo, friend