hostility
UK: /hɒˈstɪləti/ | US: /hɑˈstɪləti/
n. hostile behavior; unfriendliness or opposition
n. (hostilities) acts of warfare
The word traces back to Latin hostilitas, derived from hostis (enemy). Originally, hostis referred to a "stranger" but evolved to mean "enemy" in Roman military context. The suffix -ility abstracted the concept into a state of opposition, reflecting both personal animosity and organized conflict (e.g., "hostilities" in war).
His hostility toward the proposal was evident during the meeting.
The negotiations failed due to mutual hostility between the parties.
Historical hostilities between the two nations lasted for decades.
She faced hostility from colleagues after her promotion.
The ceasefire ended all armed hostilities in the region.