What does hostility mean?
Hostility is an uncountable noun meaning an unfriendly, antagonistic, or openly hostile attitude toward a person, group, idea, or institution. It can describe feelings, words, actions, or a broader pattern of relations: a proposal may be met with hostility, or a government may oppose a neighboring state with sustained hostility. The word usually implies more than simple disagreement, suggesting animosity, rejection, or a willingness to confront rather than merely differing views. Its plural form, “hostilities,” has a more specific meaning: it commonly denotes acts of aggression or armed conflict, especially in political and military contexts. The related adjective “hostile” is useful for describing a person, action, or environment that displays this attitude, while “hostility” is best for naming the broader feeling or condition.
nounUnfriendly or hostile behavior or attitude toward another person, group, or idea. In the plural, hostilities can refer to armed conflict or acts of open aggression.
- Unfriendly, antagonistic, or unwelcoming behavior or attitude toward someone or something.
- In the plural, acts or conditions of open conflict, especially between states, groups, or opposing forces.
"The proposal was met with hostility by several members of the committee."
"She answered the criticism without hostility, even though she disagreed with it."
"The border region has been marked by sporadic hostilities between the two communities."
The plural is used for acts or conditions of open conflict, particularly between states, armed groups, or communities.
"Diplomatic efforts were intended to prevent the conflict from escalating into full hostilities."
From “hostile,” and ultimately from the Latin word for an enemy, this term captures the moment when goodwill turns into antagonism.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hostility come from?
Hostility derives from the adjective “hostile,” which came through French from the Latin “hostilis,” meaning “of an enemy” or “enemy-like.” The deeper Latin root “hostis” referred to an enemy or stranger. The development from describing an enemy or enemy-like conduct to the modern noun sense of antagonism occurred through the English language’s use of “hostile” and the subsequent formation of “hostility.” The Latin root also underlies cognates such as the French “hostile” and the Spanish “hostil.”
How hostility is actually used
In its usual singular use, hostility is an uncountable noun describing an attitude or pattern of behavior. The plural form “hostilities” is commonly used in political, military, or diplomatic contexts for overt conflict.
Easily confused with hostility
Hospitality means friendly and generous treatment of guests or visitors, whereas hostility means unfriendly or openly antagonistic behavior.