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Definition of archenemy

archenemy

/ˌɑːrtʃˈɛnəmi/
arch · en · e · my
Plural:archenemies
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archenemy Lexical Profile

archenemy Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A chief, principal, or most bitterly hostile enemy or opponent.

Example

"In Arthurian legend, Mordred eventually becomes the archenemy of King Arthur."

2

Satan; the chief adversary of God and humanity in Christian theology (often capitalized and preceded by 'the').

Example

"In the epic poem, the fallen angel is portrayed as the archenemy of humankind."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for archenemy

• Nearby Words

archdiocese
archduchess
archduke
archenemy
archeologically
archer
archerfish

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the mid-16th century, formed from the prefix arch- (meaning 'chief' or 'principal', ultimately from Ancient Greek archos) and enemy; originally used specifically as a title for Satan before broadening to any principal adversary.

Cite this Entry

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