Synonym Chooser

How does the noun rancor differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of rancor are animosity, animus, antagonism, antipathy, enmity, and hostility. While all these words mean "deep-seated dislike or ill will," rancor is especially applied to bitter brooding over a wrong.

rancor filled every line of his letters

When is it sensible to use animosity instead of rancor?

While the synonyms animosity and rancor are close in meaning, animosity suggests intense ill will and vindictiveness that threaten to kindle hostility.

animosity that led to revenge

Where would animus be a reasonable alternative to rancor?

Although the words animus and rancor have much in common, animus adds to animosity the implication of strong prejudice.

objections devoid of personal animus

How are the words antipathy and antagonism related as synonyms of rancor?

Both antipathy and antagonism imply a natural or logical basis for one's hatred or dislike, antipathy suggesting repugnance, a desire to avoid or reject, and antagonism suggesting a clash of temperaments leading readily to hostility.

a natural antipathy for self-seekers
antagonism between the brothers

When is enmity a more appropriate choice than rancor?

While in some cases nearly identical to rancor, enmity suggests positive hatred which may be open or concealed.

an unspoken enmity

When might hostility be a better fit than rancor?

The words hostility and rancor are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, hostility suggests an enmity showing itself in attacks or aggression.

hostility between the two nations

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of rancor Etty Lau Farrell has danced onstage at many Jane’s Addiction shows over the years, causing rancor within the band. Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 16 July 2025 There are ways to get involved and passionately advocate for your mission without embracing the rancor and extreme partisanship many leaders rightly try to avoid. Jerry Haag, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025 Washington wanted to transcend the rancor of the Cold War era that had divided the two great democracies. Ashley J. Tellis, Foreign Affairs, 17 June 2025 Josh Kroenke fired his coach and president of basketball operations in April to end years of not-so-secret intra-office backstabbing and rancor. Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 23 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for rancor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rancor
Noun
  • There is a clear correlation between being the victim of hostility and suffering from negative mental health or even physical health.
    Jo Causon, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2025
  • Time and again the president has expressed optimism after speaking with Putin about winding down the hostilities.
    Editorial, Boston Herald, 3 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • In turn, Eritrean president Isaias Afwerki had long held a grudge against the TPLF and was determined not only to dismantle it but also to inflict so much damage on Tigray that the region’s forces could never challenge Eritrea again.
    Mulugeta Gebrehiwot Berhe, Foreign Affairs, 5 Aug. 2025
  • In an interview with Politico on Sunday, longtime Musk friend Philip Low said the Tesla CEO holds grudges and will work to damage Trump.
    David Matthews, New York Daily News, 30 June 2025
Noun
  • However, Kelly’s hatred towards Beyoncé is well-documented and the singer’s fans have noticed.
    Mya Abraham, VIBE.com, 6 Aug. 2025
  • The Republican Party has nothing positive to say about any person, place or thing that Trump disparages in his rants of hatred.
    Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 6 Aug. 2025

Cite this Entry

“Rancor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rancor. Accessed 19 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on rancor

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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