Antagonistic
/ˌænˌtæɡəˈnɪstɪk/
Definitions
Characterized by or showing antagonism; actively opposing or hostile.
/ˌænˌtæɡəˈnɪstɪk/
Showing or feeling active opposition or hostility towards someone or something.
Their relationship was antagonistic from the start.
💡 Simply: Opposing or unfriendly.
More Examples
He adopted an antagonistic stance toward the new policy.
How It's Used
"The therapist noted the antagonistic relationship between the siblings."
"The two candidates engaged in an antagonistic debate."
From Late Latin *antagonisticus, from Greek ἀνταγωνιστικός (antagonistikós), from ἀνταγωνίζεσθαι (antagōnízesthai) "to contend against," from ἀντί (antí) "against" + ἀγωνίζεσθαι (agōnízesthai) "to contend."
The word's usage has remained relatively consistent throughout history, primarily referring to opposition and hostility.
Memory tip
Think 'anti' (against) and 'agonist' (competitor).