First Known Use: 1592
Dictionary
antipathy
noun an·tip·a·thy \an-ˈti-pə-thē\
: a strong feeling of dislike
plural an·tip·a·thies
Full Definition of ANTIPATHY
1
obsolete : opposition in feeling
2
: settled aversion or dislike
3
: an object of aversion
See antipathy defined for English-language learners
See antipathy defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of ANTIPATHY
Latin antipathia, from Greek antipatheia, from antipathēs of opposite feelings, from anti- + pathos experience — more at pathos
Related to ANTIPATHY
Synonym Discussion of ANTIPATHY
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>. 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>.
ANTIPATHIES Defined for Kids
antipathy
noun an·tip·a·thy \an-ˈti-pə-thē\
plural an·tip·a·thies
Definition of ANTIPATHY for Kids
: a strong feeling of dislike
Medical Dictionary
antipathy
noun an·tip·a·thy \an-ˈtip-ə-thē\
plural an·tip·a·thies
Medical Definition of ANTIPATHY
1
: settled aversion or dislike
2
: an object of aversion
—an·ti·path·ic \ˌant-i-ˈpath-ik\ adjective
Learn More About ANTIPATHY
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: antipatrioticPrevious Word in the Dictionary: antipathizeAll Words Near: antipathy
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up antipathy? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).