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Definition of versus

versus

/ˈvɝː.səs/
ver · sus
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versus Lexical Profile

versus Game Scores & Validity

• preposition

1

Against; in opposition to, especially in the context of a legal case or a sporting contest.

Example

"Tonight's championship match features the defending titleholder versus the undefeated challenger."

2

As opposed to; in contrast with, when comparing two alternatives or ideas.

Example

"The committee weighed the benefits of remote work versus traditional office attendance."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for versus
Antonyms
View all antonyms for versus

Word Nuance & Usage

In formal legal citations, 'versus' is typically abbreviated as 'v.' (e.g., Roe v. Wade), whereas in sports and general comparisons, 'vs.' is standard.

• Rhymes for versus

• Nearby Words

versify
version
versioning
versus
vertebra
vertebral
vertebrate

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 15th century from Medieval Latin versus ('against'), originally the past participle of Classical Latin vertere ('to turn'), referring to turning toward or facing an opponent.

Cite this Entry

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