antagonize
UK: ænˈtæɡ.ə.naɪz | US: ænˈtæɡ.ə.naɪz
vt. to cause someone to become hostile or unfriendly
vt. to act in opposition to; counteract or oppose
The word "antagonize" originates from Greek roots. The prefix ant- (from Greek anti-) means "against," while agon derives from Greek agōn, meaning "contest" or "struggle." Combined with the verb-forming suffix -ize, the term literally means "to act against in a struggle." Historically, it referred to physical or competitive opposition but evolved to describe provoking hostility or resistance in interpersonal contexts.
His rude comments antagonized the entire team.
The new policy is likely to antagonize environmental groups.
She avoided criticizing him directly to avoid antagonizing him further.
The leader’s speech antagonized voters instead of winning them over.
Constant interference can antagonize even the most patient colleagues.