PoliticsJuly 8, 2026

nemesis

/ˈnɛm.ə.sɪs/

Definition

A long-standing and formidable rival or opponent whom one finds difficult to defeat or overcome.

Etymology

The word originates from the Greek goddess 'Nemesis,' who personified divine retribution and vengeance. In modern English, it has evolved from meaning a source of unavoidable punishment to referring to an arch-rival.

In the news

In this article, Marine Le Pen labels Emmanuel Macron her 'political nemesis' to frame him as her primary, persistent adversary in the struggle for France's future. It underscores the intense, personal nature of their ongoing political rivalry.

Will Le Pen rise again? French nationalist leader defiant after court's ruling

Read the full article ↗

BBC

Related words

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.

Not for marketing. One email on launch day.