Adversary

(44), n. [Lat. adversarius, turned toward or lying before the eyes, fronting, opposite, antagonist, adversary. See ADVERSE.] One who is turned against another or others with a design to oppose or resist them; a member of an opposing or hostile party; an opponent; an antagonist; an enemy; a foe. “His ancient knot of dangerous adversaries.” Shak. “Agree with thine adversary quickly.” Matt. v. 25. It may be thought that to vindicate the permanency of truth is to dispute without an adversary. Beattie. The adversary, Satan, or the devil; — so called by way of eminence. Beattie. Syn.—ADVERSARY, ENEMY, OPPONENT, ANTAGONIST. Enemy is the only one of these words which necessarily implies a state of personal hostility. Men may be adversaries, antagonists, or opponents to each other in certain respects, and yet have no feelings of general animosity. An adversary may be simply one who is placed for a time in a hostile position, as in argument, or in chess-playing. An opponent is one who is ranged against another (perhaps passively) on the opposing side. An antagonist is one who struggles against another with active effort, either in a literal fight or in verbal debate.

a. 1. Opposed; opposite; adverse; antagonistic.

2Sense 2. (Law.) Having an opposing party; in distinction from an application, in law or equity, to which no opposition is made; as, an adversary suit.