hostility

American  

[ho-stil-i-tee] / hɒˈstɪl ɪ ti /

noun

plural

hostilities

1. a hostile state, condition, or attitude; enmity; antagonism; unfriendliness.

   Synonyms:

   hatred, ill will, animus, animosity

   Antonyms:

   friendliness

2. a hostile act.

3. opposition or resistance to an idea, plan, project, etc.

4. hostilities,

   1. acts of warfare.

   2. war.

   Synonyms:

   conflict, fighting

   Antonyms:

   peace

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hostility British  

/ hɒˈstɪlɪtɪ /

noun

1. enmity or antagonism

2. an act expressing enmity or opposition

3. (plural) fighting; warfare

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Other Word Forms

• nonhostility noun
• overhostility noun
• prehostility noun
• semihostility noun

Etymology

Origin of hostility

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English hostilite, from Latin hostīlitās, from hostīl(is) ( hostile ) + -itās -ity

Example Sentences

But East Lothian Council's decision to install parking meters has been met with an "unprecedented" level of hostility.

From BBC

"I call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and de-escalation. Failing to do so risks a wider regional conflict with grave consequences for civilians and regional stability."

From BBC

The European Union called for "immediate de-escalation and a halt of hostilities", adding in a statement by policy chief Kaja Kallas that "Afghan territory must not be used to threaten or attack other countries".

From Barron's

The president of the International Committee of the Red Cross called on Friday for a de-escalation of hostilities between Afghanistan and Pakistan, insisting that civilians must be protected and healthcare access guaranteed.

From Barron's

A number of other countries including China, India and Canada have told their citizens to leave Iran as soon as possible due to the prospect of hostilities.

From BBC

Related Words

• aggression
• animosity
• antagonism
• antipathy
• bitterness
• enmity
• estrangement
• hatred
• ill will
• opposition
• rancor
• resentment
• war