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Definition of antagonistic

antagonistic

/ænˌtæɡ.əˈnɪs.tɪk/
an · tag · o · nis · tic
Adverb:antagonistically
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antagonistic Lexical Profile

antagonistic Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Showing or feeling active opposition, hostility, or animosity toward someone or something.

Example

"The spokesperson adopted an unnecessarily antagonistic tone when answering questions from the press."

2

Acting in opposition or counteracting the effect of another force, muscle, or chemical substance (in physiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology).

Example

"The biceps and triceps are an antagonistic pair of muscles that work opposite each other to move the forearm."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for antagonistic

• Nearby Words

antacid
antagonism
antagonist
antagonistic
antagonistically
antagonization
antagonize

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Ancient Greek 'antagonistes' (opponent, rival), formed from 'anti-' (against) and 'agonizesthai' (to struggle or contend for a prize), from 'agon' (contest).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Antagonistic. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/antagonistic
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