enmity

/ˈɛn.mɪ.tɪ/

Group 28Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(noun)
The state or feeling of being actively opposed or hostile to someone or something
GRE

Example in Context

The enmity between the two families, rooted in a property dispute that dated back generations, poisoned local politics for decades.

Synonyms

hatredhostilityanimosity

Etymology

Not being a friend — a state of hostility.

  • in- (Latin) — not
  • amicus (Latin) — friend

Memory Aid

Sounds like “enemy tea

When enemies spill TEA, it’s a bitter ENMITY brewing in the pot!

Visual Association

⚔️Two people throwing boiling tea at each other, symbolizing deep-seated enmity.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “enmity” mean on the GRE?

enmity (noun) means “The state or feeling of being actively opposed or hostile to someone or something”. The enmity between the two families, rooted in a property dispute that dated back generations, poisoned local politics for decades.

How to remember “enmity” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “enmity” sounds like “enemy tea”. When enemies spill TEA, it’s a bitter ENMITY brewing in the pot!

What are synonyms for “enmity”?

Common synonyms: hatred, hostility, animosity.