Meaning of Word
Hostile refers to an attitude or behavior that is unfriendly, antagonistic, or aggressive, often involving opposition, enmity, or conflict.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Having or showing intense dislike or opposition.
- Unfriendly, antagonistic, or aggressively opposed to something or someone.
- Characterized by hostility, often leading to conflict or confrontation.
- Not conducive to well-being or cooperation; adversarial in nature.
History and Origin
The word hostile comes from the Latin word hostilis, meaning “of an enemy” or “belonging to an enemy,” derived from hostis, meaning “enemy.”
- It has been used in English since the late 14th century to describe both physical combat situations and metaphorical enmity between people or groups. Over time, its meaning expanded beyond just military conflicts to describe any unfriendly or adversarial attitude or action.
Detailed Explanation
Hostile is often used to describe a situation, environment, or individual that is marked by aggression, opposition, or conflict. It can refer to outright aggression or simply a general unfriendliness or antagonism. For example, a hostile attitude can be exhibited through harsh words, confrontational behavior, or refusal to cooperate. In international relations, a hostile country is one that has an adversarial stance toward another, often marked by political or military tension.
Hostility can also manifest in less extreme forms, such as passive-aggressive behaviors, sarcasm, or avoidance, but it generally involves an underlying tension or a lack of cooperation.
Example Sentences
- The two countries have maintained a hostile relationship for years, marked by frequent disputes.
- His hostile response to the suggestion made everyone uncomfortable.
- The hostile environment at the workplace made it difficult for employees to collaborate.
- The hostile crowd jeered at the politician during his speech.
- She faced a hostile reception when she arrived at the meeting, as her ideas were controversial.
- The hostile takeover of the company resulted in significant layoffs.
- He approached the conversation with a hostile attitude, refusing to listen to anyone else’s opinions.
- They had to retreat when they encountered a hostile force on the battlefield.
- His hostile manner made it hard for him to make friends in the new city.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Antagonistic – Showing active opposition or hostility.
- Aggressive – Ready to attack or confront; often a more intense form of hostility.
- Adversarial – Relating to conflict or opposition, often in a competitive or hostile manner.
- Unfriendly – Not showing kindness or warmth; showing hostility or lack of cooperation.
- Belligerent – Warlike or hostile; inclined to fight or engage in conflict.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Enmity – A deep-seated hostility or mutual hatred, often between individuals or groups.
- Conflict – A serious disagreement or clash, often involving hostility between parties.
- Animosity – Strong dislike or hatred, often resulting in hostile actions or attitudes.
- Opposition – The act of resisting or opposing, sometimes in a hostile manner.
- Aggression – Hostile or violent behavior toward others, often linked to an attack or confrontation.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Confrontational – Characterized by a willingness to challenge or oppose, often in a hostile manner.
- Combative – Eager to fight or argue; a strong form of hostility.
- Hostility – The state of being hostile; direct or indirect aggression or opposition.
- Bitter – Marked by strong hostility or resentment, especially in relationships or situations.
- Resentful – Holding a grudge or feeling anger due to perceived wrongs, often leading to a hostile attitude.
Antonyms
- Friendly – Showing kindness, warmth, or cooperation, opposite of hostile.
- Peaceful – Marked by the absence of conflict or hostility, often promoting harmony.
- Amiable – Displaying a friendly, pleasant, and good-natured attitude.
- Cooperative – Willing to work together or assist others, counteracting hostility.
- Sympathetic – Showing understanding and compassion, the opposite of hostility.
