Relating to, measured along, or being a diameter; representing the greatest possible difference or opposition.
From Latin 'diametralis', derived from 'diameter' (a line through the center). The term evolved to mean not just geometric opposition but any kind of complete or extreme contrast.
When two things are diametrally opposed, they're not just different—they're about as far apart as two positions can possibly be, like opposite ends of a diameter. It's why we say 'diametrically opposed' when two philosophies couldn't be more different.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.