# animosity

/ˌænəˈmɑsəti/ (US) · /ˌænɪmˈɒsɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/animosity
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a strong feeling of dislike or anger toward someone. It usually happens because of a past argument or a long history of not getting along.

For teachers: a state of strong hostility or active ill will. Often implies a long-standing or deep-seated resentment between parties.

## Examples

- There is no animosity between the two former rivals.
- The long legal battle created a great deal of animosity between the two families, making any future reconciliation unlikely.
- Despite their professional disagreements, the researchers maintained a civil relationship, ensuring that personal animosity did not cloud the objective evaluation of their shared data.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the general feeling; countable when referring to specific instances or acts of hostility.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.