What does enmity mean?
Enmity refers to a sustained state of hostility, hatred, or deep ill will directed toward another person, group, or even idea. Unlike a passing irritation, enmity implies something entrenched — often mutual and long-lasting — such as the bitter enmity between feuding families or nations. The word carries a formal, literary tone and is more common in writing than in everyday speech. It derives from the Latin root inimicus, meaning 'unfriendly' or 'hostile,' which also gives us 'enemy,' making the connection between the two words direct and memorable. Enmity is useful precisely because it names something more serious than dislike: not mere annoyance or disagreement, but genuine, settled antagonism. Writers often reach for it when describing political rivalries, family feuds, or historic conflicts where ordinary words like anger or resentment feel too mild for the depth of opposition involved.
nounEnmity is a feeling or state of active hostility, hatred, or ill will toward someone, often lasting over a long period.
- A state or feeling of deep-seated hostility, hatred, or ill will toward someone.
"A long-standing enmity divided the two families, despite their children's friendship."
"Decades of enmity separated the two rival clans."
"She felt no personal enmity toward her opponent, only professional rivalry."
The plural is grammatically valid but uncommon; it typically refers to multiple distinct hostile relationships or instances of ill will.
"The novel traces the enmities that tore apart the small town."
Enmity and enemy share the same Latin root — so every enmity you've ever felt was, literally, a case of making an enemy.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of enmity
Enmity comes from the Latin inimicitia, derived from inimicus ('unfriendly, hostile'), itself formed from in- ('not') plus amicus ('friend'). The word entered English via Old French enemisté during the medieval period. Its closest English relative is 'enemy,' which shares the same Latin ancestor, along with the rarer adjective 'inimical.'
How enmity is actually used
Formal to literary in register; rarely used in casual conversation. Often appears in phrases like 'mutual enmity' or 'an old enmity,' suggesting a long-standing rather than momentary antagonism.
Easily confused with enmity
Anatomy is the study of bodily structure, while enmity means hostility or hatred — they share a similar ending but nothing else.