noun

adversary

AD-ver-sair-ee/ˈædvərseri/

An opponent or enemy in a conflict or contest.

Each fencer faces an adversary with a foil poised for the contest.

Two fencing opponents face one another, full protective white kit and masks, foils crossed in controlled sporting opposition; minimal floor line.

Etymology

adLatinto, toward

+versLatinto turn

+aryLatinassociated with

“Turning toward” people became the image of facing them in opposition. The Latin adjective meaning “opposite” or “hostile” was used as a noun for the person confronting you: an opponent or enemy.

In context

WILD NATURE - Nature animal documentary31:03

looking its adversary straight in the face it is the only serpent to stare directly into an opponent's eyes at eye level

World’s Deadliest Snakes (FULL EPISODE) | A Brutal Fight for Survival | Animal documentary

More examples

Former political adversaries agree to work together.
He respects his adversary despite their sharp disagreement.
The prosecutor faces a formidable adversary in the courtroom.

Forms

adversary · adversaries

adversarial adjective — Involving opposing sides in conflict or competition.

Similar words

opponent: The neutral term for someone on the other side.
enemy: Usually suggests deeper hostility than a contest or disagreement.