prep. 1 in opposition to (fight against the invaders; am against hanging; arson is against the law). 2 into collision or in contact with (ran against a rock; lean against the wall; up against a problem). 3 to the disadvantage of (his age is against him). 4 in contrast to (against a dark background; 99 as against 102 yesterday). 5 in anticipation of or preparation for (against his coming; against a rainy day; protected against the cold; warned against pickpockets). 6 as a compensating factor to (income against expenditure). 7 in return for (issued against payment of the fee). against the clock see CLOCK(1) 3. against the grain see GRAIN. against time see TIME.
[ ME ayenes etc. f. ayen AGAIN + -t as in amongst: see AMONG ]