noun

foe

FOH/fəʊ/

An enemy or opponent.

Each chess player faces a determined foe.

Two opposing chess players face each other across board with serious competitive expressions, one is foreground and the other unmistakable opponent; correct coherent chess pieces, no weapons.
Etymology

Old English gefea named an enemy or an adversary in a blood feud. The word later broadened to include an opponent without implying such intense personal hostility.

In context

Oculus Imperia141:30
it fell to Honus to rally and lead them amongst a foe unlike anything the Imperium let alone he had the ability to coordinate a fight against
The Betrayal at Calth: The Complete History (Warhammer 40,000 & Horus Heresy Lore)

More examples

  • They overcame several foes.
  • Her former friend became a foe.
  • He respected his foe.

Forms

foe · foes

Similar words

enemy
The ordinary term, sometimes stronger than opponent.
rival
Competes without necessarily hostility.