VocabDictionary

arch rivals

/ˌɑːrtʃ ˈraɪ.vəlz/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The principal or most significant opponent in a competition, conflict, or rivalry.

Example Sentences:
  • The two teams have been arch rivals for over a century, making every match between them a highly anticipated event.
  • Despite being arch rivals in the business world, the two CEOs occasionally collaborate on industry-wide policy changes.
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English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “arch rivals”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

The term combines 'arch-' (from the Greek 'arkhos', meaning chief, principal, or preeminent) with 'rival' (from the Latin 'rivalis', meaning one who shares the same stream, implying competition over water rights). Together, it denotes the primary or most significant opponent in a conflict.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of an 'arch' as the highest point of a bridge; an 'arch-rival' is the highest-level, most prominent rival you have.

Frequently Asked Questions About “arch rivals

1. What is the meaning of “arch rivals” in English?

In English, arch rivals (noun) is defined as: “The principal or most significant opponent in a competition, conflict, or rivalry.”.

2. How do you use “arch rivals” in a sentence?

The two teams have been arch rivals for over a century, making every match between them a highly anticipated event.

3. What are English synonyms of “arch rivals”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “arch rivals”?

The term combines 'arch-' (from the Greek 'arkhos', meaning chief, principal, or preeminent) with 'rival' (from the Latin 'rivalis', meaning one who shares the same stream, implying competition over water rights). Together, it denotes the primary or most significant opponent in a conflict.