noun
hostility
hah-STIL-uh-tee/hɑːˈstɪləti/
Active antagonism toward an opposing person or group.
The two groups show open hostility across the meeting table.
Etymology
Latin hostilis described what belonged to or characterized an enemy. The noun turns that enemy-like stance into a state of enmity, giving the sense of unfriendly opposition or antagonism.
In context
If you become angry with someone and they don't feel insulted or accept your hostility, the anger falls back on you as it was initially yours to give.
More examples
- She responds to the new manager with open hostility.
- Despite their disagreements, the neighbors speak without hostility.
- The cease-fire brings an end to hostilities along the border.
Forms
hostility · hostilities
hostile adjective — Showing strong opposition or unfriendliness toward others.
Similar words
- antagonism
- Emphasizes active resistance or conflict between opposing people or groups.
- animosity
- Emphasizes strong personal dislike rather than outward acts of opposition.
- enmity
- Often suggests deep, lasting hatred between people or groups.