Hostility

/hɒˈstɪləti/ or /hɑːˈstɪləti/ noun

Definition

Strong dislike, anger, or unfriendliness, often leading to conflict or violence.

Etymology

From Late Latin “hostilitas,” from Latin “hostilis” (of an enemy), from “hostis” (enemy). It originally referred to acts of war between states.

Kelly Says

Hostility is what happens when disagreement moves from ideas to emotional attack. Even a small amount of hostility in a group can change how safe everyone feels, without a single punch thrown.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.