Word of the Day

: October 17, 2007

enmity

noun EN-muh-tee

What It Means

: positive, active, and typically mutual hatred or ill will

enmity in Context

Having to work on the project together only increased the enmity between Ralph and Debra, who had never gotten along.

Did You Know?

"Enmity" and its synonyms "hostility," "animosity," and "animus" all indicate deep-seated dislike or ill will. "Enmity" (which derives from an Anglo-French word meaning "enemy") suggests true hatred, either overt or concealed. "Hostility" implies strong, open enmity that shows itself in attacks or aggression. "Animosity" carries the sense of anger, vindictiveness, and sometimes the desire to destroy what one hates. "Animus" is generally less violent than "animosity," but definitely conveys active prejudice or ill will.