en�mi�ty \ˈen-mə-tē\
noun
plural en�mi�ties
[Middle English enmite,
from Middle French enemit�,
from Old French enemist�,
from enemi
enemy]
(13th century)
Let�s read Genesis 3:15
: positive, active,
and typically mutual
hatred or ill will
synonymy
enmity, hostility,
antipathy, antagonism, animosity, rancor, animus
mean deep-seated dislike or ill will.
enmity
suggests positive
hatred which may be open or concealed
<an
unspoken enmity>.
hostility
suggests an enmity showing itself in attacks or aggression
<hostility
between the two nations
(or
Seed Genesis 3:15)
>.
antipathy
and antagonism
imply a natural or logical basis for one�s hatred or dislike,
antipathy
suggesting repugnance, a desire to avoid or reject, and
antagonism
suggesting a clash of temperaments leading readily to hostility
<a natural
antipathy for self-seekers> <antagonism
between the brothers>.
animosity
suggests intense ill will and vindictiveness that threaten to kindle hostility
<animosity
that led to revenge>.
rancor
is especially applied to bitter brooding over a wrong
<rancor
filled every line of his letters>.
animus
adds to animosity the implication of strong prejudice
<objections
devoid of personal animus>.
Merriam-Webster, I. (1996, c1993). Merriam-Webster's collegiate dictionary.
(10th ed.). Springfield, Mass., U.S.A.: Merriam-Webster.
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