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antagonist

noun

/ænˈtæg ə nɪst/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of antagonist

A character or force in a literary work, such as a novel, play, or film, who opposes or stands in conflict with the protagonist.
"The antagonist's cunning schemes constantly thwarted the hero's plans."

Detailed meaning of antagonist

The antagonist is often portrayed as an adversary or obstacle that creates tension and drives the plot forward. They may possess traits or motivations that directly oppose the goals or desires of the main character, serving as a source of conflict and driving the narrative's development. Antagonists can take various forms, ranging from individuals with malevolent intentions to abstract concepts or societal structures that impede the protagonist's progress. They play a crucial role in creating dramatic tension, providing challenges and obstacles for the protagonist to overcome. By challenging the main character's resolve, the antagonist contributes to character development and helps shape the story's themes. In many cases, the antagonist represents the embodiment of evil, but they can also possess complex and multifaceted qualities, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative.

Example sentences containing antagonist

1. A dark figure, the antagonist awaits, shrouded in mystery, wielding fear.
2. In the novel's heart, an antagonist rises, challenging our hero.
3. Fearless, Jane confronts the antagonist, eyes filled with determination.
4. Every story's soul, the antagonist, weaves conflict into the plot.
5. Powerful and cruel, the antagonist casts a dark shadow on the tale.
6. Like night to day, the antagonist is the hero's eternal opposite.

History and etymology of antagonist

The noun 'antagonist' has its etymological origins in the Greek language. It is derived from the Greek word 'antagonistes,' which combines 'anti-' (meaning 'against') and 'agonistes' (meaning 'competitor' or 'opponent'). In this sense, 'antagonist' etymologically signifies a character or force in a literary work, such as a novel, play, or film, who actively opposes or competes with the protagonist. This term highlights the concept of opposition and conflict within a narrative, where the antagonist serves as a formidable adversary to the central character, often driving the plot and creating tension. The etymology of 'antagonist' underscores the role of this character as a central source of conflict and opposition in storytelling.

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Further usage examples of antagonist

1. In the realm of fiction, the antagonist is a catalyst for change.
2. The antagonist, cold and cruel, is a mirror of our darkest fears.
3. Heroes rise because an antagonist forces them to face peril.
4. Dark energy embodies the antagonist, a storm against the protagonist.
5. With every step forward, the antagonist pushes the hero two steps back.
6. The antagonist's gaze, icy, sends chills down the protagonist’s spine.
7. Echoing evil, the antagonist’s voice haunts the hero’s every step.
8. A dance of power, the antagonist and hero, locked in eternal struggle.
9. In tales untold, the antagonist brews storms of unprecedented conflict.
10. Mountains tremble when the antagonist claims his ground, defiant.
11. Villains rise, but it’s the antagonist who tests the hero's true metal.
12. As day turns to night, the antagonist's powers reach their dark zenith.
13. A tale unfolds where the antagonist, fierce, confronts unyielding good.
14. In shadows and whispers, the antagonist’s presence is an ominous song.
15. With a wicked smile, the antagonist reveled in causing chaos and despair.
16. The antagonist's relentless pursuit kept the protagonist on edge throughout the story.
17. The novel introduced a surprising twist where the supposed antagonist turned out to be an ally.
18. The antagonist's icy stare sent shivers down the protagonist's spine.
19. In the climactic battle, the protagonist finally confronted the formidable antagonist.
20. The antagonist's manipulative words sowed discord among the protagonist's allies.
21. Despite their differences, the protagonist recognized a glimmer of humanity within the antagonist.
22. The antagonist's tragic backstory shed light on the motivations behind their villainous actions.
23. The antagonist's malevolent presence lingered in every scene, creating a sense of impending doom.
24. The antagonist's charismatic charm masked their true sinister intentions.
25. Throughout the story, the protagonist grappled with their internal struggle against the darkness embodied by the antagonist.