enemy

noun

ˈe-nə-mē How to pronounce enemy (audio)
Definition of enemynext
as in opponent
one that is hostile toward another a beloved minister with no known enemies

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of enemy Summer heat may still be the enemy when bedtime rolls around, but with cool nights just around the corner, now’s a smart time to snag a fluffy comforter. — Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Aug. 2026 As enemies barge into an upper floor of a building, Duval, who is a security detail for the mission, takes them on by hiding behind cover and shooting at them. — Jay Peters, The Verge, 27 Aug. 2026 The combat is slow and tedious, with far too much emphasis on reacting to overly precious enemy animations. — Jordan Minor, PC Magazine, 26 Aug. 2026 That gets more difficult with enemies shooting and approaching Mega Man. — Gieson Cacho, Mercury News, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for enemy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for enemy
  1. opponent
  2. foe
  3. hostile
Noun
  • But by defending in this way, Chelsea are giving smart opponents the advantage in the battle for possession.
    — Jon Mackenzie, New York Times, 1 Sep. 2026
  • It was scheduled after Sandburg had its original Week 2 opponent back out.
    — Steve Millar, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026
Definition of opponent
Noun
  • So far in the 2026 primary season at least five congressional Democrats – from Texas to Colorado – who are 65 or older have lost to younger foes amid the anti-establishment revolt.
    — Phillip M. Bailey, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2026
  • That sense of powerlessness against an unknowable, unkillable foe.
    — Keith Langston, Space.com, 2 Sep. 2026
Definition of foe
Noun
  • His target audience, Cardoza said, is not the small AI filmmaking community but general viewers, including some hostile to the method.
    — Maureen Kerr, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026
  • California is often tagged as a hostile to business due to high taxes and regulations.
    — Gene Maddaus, Variety, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of hostile

Browse Nearby Words

enemies
enemy
energetic
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Enemy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/enemy. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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