Langimage
English

rival

|ri/val|

B2

/ˈraɪvəl/

competitor

Etymology
Etymology Information

'rival' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'rivalis,' where 'riva' meant 'stream' and '-alis' meant 'pertaining to.'

Historical Evolution

'rivalis' transformed into the Old French word 'rival,' and eventually became the modern English word 'rival' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'one who uses the same stream,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'competitor.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person or thing competing with another for the same objective or for superiority in the same field.

He was a formidable rival in the chess tournament.

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Antonyms

Verb 1

to compete with or strive to equal or surpass another.

The new smartphone rivals the best on the market.

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Antonyms

Adjective 1

having the same claim to superiority or excellence as another.

They were rival teams in the league.

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Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39