Definition for

adversary


To antagonize; oppose.

Opposed; opposite to; adverse: antagonistic: as, “adversary forces,” Bp. King.

In law, having an opposing party, in contradistinction to unopposed: as, an adversary suit.

noun – One who acts adversely or inimically; an unfriendly opponent or antagonist; an enemy.

noun – Specifically [capitalized] The devil; Satan as the general enemy of mankind: as, the wiles of the Adversary.

noun – An opponent in a contest; one who contends against another or strives for victory; a contestant.

noun – Synonyms and Adversary, Antagonist, Opponent, Enemy, Foe. These words vary in strength according as they express spirit, action, or relation. A foe has most of the spirit of enmity, or is actively hostile. The word is more used in poetry than in prose. Enemy, as denoting an opponent in war, or a member of an opposing party, does not necessarily imply personal hostility. Opponent, adversary, and antagonist are less severe in their opposition, and need have no animosity. Opponent is often a passive word; antagonist is always active and personal. A man may be our opponent in an argument or a lawsuit, our adversary in a game, as chess, our antagonist in a wrestling- or boxing-match, or other occasion of strenuous exertion: the choice between the three words depends chiefly upon the measure of activity involved. In the Bible, adversary covers the meaning of all five words.

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