enemy

 
Pronunciation: /ˈɛnəmi/

noun (plural enemies)

  • a person who is actively opposed or hostile to someone or something: the traditional enemies of his tribe Nigel made many enemies this man was her sworn enemy
  • (the enemy) [treated as singular or plural] a hostile nation or its armed forces, especially in time of war: the enemy shot down four helicopters [as modifier]: enemy aircraft
  • a thing that harms or weakens something else: routine is the enemy of art

Phrases

be one's own worst enemy

act in a way contrary to one’s own interests: I try my best, but he’s his own worst enemy

make an enemy of

cause (someone) to start feeling hostile to one: you really don’t want to make an enemy of your girlfriend’s best mate

Origin:

Middle English: from Old French enemi, from Latin inimicus, from in- 'not' + amicus 'friend'