Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

frenemy

noun
ˈfrɛnəˌmi
Definition
A frenemy is a person with whom one is friendly despite a fundamental dislike or rivalry.
Examples
  • Despite their frequent arguments, they continued to hang out due to their frenemy status.
  • At work, she always felt he was a frenemy; smiling on the surface but competing behind her back.
Meaning
The term combines ‘friend’ and ‘enemy,’ referring to a person who pretends to be a friend but actually harbors resentment or hostility.
Synonyms
  • rival
  • enemy
  • competitor
  • opponent