n.
Pronunciation: ' en-m ə -t ē
Function: noun
Inflected Form: plural -ties
Etymology: Middle English enmite, from Anglo-French enemité, enemisté, from enemi enemy
Date: 13th century
: positive, active, and typically mutual hatred or ill will
synonyms ENMITY , HOSTILITY , ANTIPATHY , ANTAGONISM , ANIMOSITY , RANCOR , ANIMUS mean deep-seated dislike or ill will. ENMITY suggests positive hatred which may be open or concealed <an unspoken enmity >. HOSTILITY suggests an enmity showing itself in attacks or aggression < hostility between the two nations>. 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>. ANIMOSITY suggests intense ill will and vindictiveness that threaten to kindle hostility < animosity that led to revenge>. RANCOR is especially applied to bitter brooding over a wrong < rancor filled every line of his letters>. ANIMUS adds to animosity the implication of strong prejudice <objections devoid of personal animus >.