Langimage
English

enemy

|en/e/my|

B1

/ˈɛnəmi/

hostile opponent

Etymology
Etymology Information

'enemy' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'inimicus,' where 'in-' meant 'not' and 'amicus' meant 'friend.'

Historical Evolution

'inimicus' transformed into the Old French word 'enemi,' and eventually became the modern English word 'enemy' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'not a friend,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a hostile opponent.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person who is actively opposed or hostile to someone or something.

He made many enemies during his career.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

a hostile nation or its armed forces, especially in time of war.

The country prepared to defend itself against the enemy.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35