/ad verr"si tee/ , n. , pl. adversities for 2.
1. adverse fortune or fate; a condition marked by misfortune, calamity, or distress: A friend will show his or her true colors in times of adversity.
2. an adverse or unfortunate event or circumstance: You will meet many adversities in life.
[ 1200-50; ME adversite ( adversitas. See ADVERSE, -ITY ]
Syn. 1. catastrophe, disaster; trouble, misery. 2. See affliction .
Ant. 1. prosperity.