First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
rancor
noun ran·cor \ˈraŋ-kər, -ˌkȯr\
: an angry feeling of hatred or dislike for someone who has treated you unfairly
Full Definition of RANCOR
: bitter deep-seated ill will
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Origin of RANCOR
Middle English rancour, from Anglo-French rancur, from Late Latin rancor rancidity, rancor, from Latin rancēre
Related to RANCOR
Synonym Discussion of RANCOR
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>.
RANCOR Defined for Kids
rancor
noun ran·cor \ˈraŋ-kər\
Definition of RANCOR for Kids
: deep hatred
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