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 adversary, antagonist, foe, rival 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

2 one that is hostile toward another the senator has many political opponents who would love to ruin his career Synonyms adversary, antagonist, foe, hostile, enemyRelated Words archenemy, archfoe, nemesis; ill-wisher; bane, bête noire; assailant, attacker, combatant, invader; competitor, emulator, rivalNear Antonyms 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 amigo, friend