antagonism
UK: ænˈtæɡənɪzəm | US: ænˈtæɡənɪzəm
n. active opposition or hostility between conflicting forces, ideas, or interests
n. (biochemistry) interference in the physiological action of a substance by another
The word "antagonism" originates from Greek antagōnizesthai ("to struggle against"), combining anti- (against) and agōn (contest, struggle). The root agōn reflects ancient Greek competitive spirit, often seen in athletic or intellectual contests. Over time, antagonism evolved to describe any form of opposition, whether physical, ideological, or biochemical. The suffix -ism formalizes the concept as a noun.
The political debate revealed deep antagonism between the two parties.
Scientists studied the antagonism between the two chemicals in the lab.
His antagonism toward authority figures began in childhood.
The novel explores the antagonism between tradition and modernity.
Antibiotics work by causing antagonism to bacterial growth.