rivalry

UK: ˈraɪvəlri | US: ˈraɪvəlri

Definition

  1. n. competition for the same objective or superiority

  2. n. a state of ongoing competition or antagonism

Structure
rival <competitor>ry <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word traces back to Latin rivalis, where rivus (stream) metaphorically framed rivals as those competing for shared resources. Over time, it generalized to any competitive relationship. The suffix -ry (from Old French -erie) solidified its meaning as an abstract state of competition.

Examples

  1. The rivalry between the two football teams dates back decades.

  2. Sibling rivalry often peaks during childhood.

  3. Their friendly rivalry pushed both athletes to improve.

  4. The political rivalry divided the nation.

  5. Commercial rivalry drives innovation in technology.