archenemy

[ ahrch-en-uh-mee ]

noun

, plural arch·en·e·mies.

1. a chief enemy.
2. Satan; the Devil.

archenemy

/ ˈɑːtʃˈɛnɪmɪ /

noun

1. a chief enemy
2. the archenemy
   often capital the devil

Word History and Origins

Origin of archenemy¹

First recorded in 1540–50; arch- ¹ + enemy

Example Sentences

Diplomats, analysts and officials throughout the region and in the West agree that an all-out war between Iran and Israel would be devastating, quite likely more for the Islamic Republic than its archenemy.

From Los Angeles Times

Those groups have long provided Iran with a means to challenge its regional archenemy Israel, as well as the U.S., without a direct military confrontation.

From Seattle Times

The war has sent regional tensions spiraling, leading to a dramatic eruption of violence between Israel and its archenemy Iran that threatened to escalate into a full-blown war.

From Seattle Times

A spokesperson for Hezbollah, Israel’s archenemy on its northern border, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

From Seattle Times

Iran does not recognize Israel and views it as its archenemy.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• antagonist