Langimage
English

opposite

|op-po-site|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈɑː.pə.zɪt/

🇬🇧

/ˈɒp.ə.zɪt/

completely different

Etymology
Etymology Information

'opposite' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'oppositus,' where 'op-' meant 'against' and 'positus' meant 'placed.'

Historical Evolution

'oppositus' transformed into the Old French word 'opposite,' and eventually became the modern English word 'opposite' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'placed against,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'completely different.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person or thing that is completely different from another.

Hot is the opposite of cold.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

being in a position on the other side; facing.

The two houses are on opposite sides of the street.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35