Episode Overview

Podcast: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day
Date: September 20, 2025
Word: Enmity
Host: Peter Sokolowski
Theme:
Today's episode explores the meaning, usage, and etymology of “enmity,” a formal noun that denotes a deep, mutual feeling of hatred or ill will.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Definition and Pronunciation

• Host (00:42):
  • “Today's word is enmity.
    Spelled E, N, M, I, T, Y; enmity is a noun. It's a formal word that refers to a very deep, unfriendly feeling, such as hatred or ill will, that is often felt mutually.”

Usage in Context

• Example from the Chicago Tribune:
  • “Paul Monreal is a fourth great-grandchild of Catherine and Patrick O’Leary, who endured the enmity of Chicagoans after they were wrongfully accused of starting the Great Chicago Fire, which legend said was started by a jittery dairy cow named Daisy.” (00:56)
  • This citation illustrates enmity as a public, communal emotion rooted in misdirected blame.

Etymology and Connection to ‘Enemy’

• Host (01:15):
  • “The resemblance between the words enmity and enemy is no coincidence. They both come from the Anglo-French word enemy, which literally translates to enemy.”
  • The explanation draws listeners' attention to the shared linguistic roots, enhancing memory and comprehension.

Nuances of Meaning

• Host (01:26):
  • “When you feel enmity for a particular person that is deep-seated dislike or ill will, enemy may very well be an apt descriptor for them.”
  • Not all enmity is reciprocated, but in many cases, the feeling is mutual.

Typical Usage and Literary Reference

• Host (01:33):
  • “While it is possible to feel enmity for someone who does not share or return one’s animosity, the word enmity is typically used for mutual hatred or antagonism between people or groups or factions...”
  • Reference to Edgar Allan Poe’s first published short story:
    • “Never before were two houses so illustrious, mutually embittered by hostility so deadly. The origin of this enmity seems to be found in the words of an ancient prophecy. ‘A lofty name shall have a fearful fall.’” (01:44-02:00)
  • The Poe quote highlights the classic literary context in which enmity often appears—reflecting long-standing, mutual antagonism.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On the relationship between enmity and enemy:
  • “The resemblance between the words enmity and enemy is no coincidence.” — Peter Sokolowski (01:15)
• On mutual hostility:
  • “The word enmity is typically used for mutual hatred or antagonism between people or groups or factions.” — Peter Sokolowski (01:33)
• Literary illustration:
  • “Never before were two houses so illustrious, mutually embittered by hostility so deadly.” — Edgar Allan Poe, quoted by Peter Sokolowski (01:44)

Important Timestamps

• 00:42 — Definition of enmity
• 00:56 — Example from the Chicago Tribune
• 01:15 — Etymology and connection to ‘enemy’
• 01:26 — Commentary on meaning and usage
• 01:44-02:00 — Edgar Allan Poe’s literary reference

Final Thoughts

The September 20, 2025, episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day offers a full exploration of “enmity”: its formal tone, mutual nature, etymological ties to “enemy,” and enduring presence in literature. Through concrete examples and memorable quotations, listeners gain a nuanced understanding of how and when to use this impactful word.