rancor
Bitter, long-lasting resentment or ill will
Examples
In a meeting
“Despite the rancor from the merger, both teams eventually found common ground.”
Over coffee
“There's still rancor between them years after their falling out.”
Why this word
bitterness
rancor is deep, long-lasting resentment and malice, while bitterness can be disappointment or resentment without the intense hostility
anger
rancor suggests festering, enduring hatred, while anger is an immediate emotional response that may pass quickly
resentment
rancor conveys deeper malice and vindictiveness, while resentment is lingering displeasure that may lack the poisonous quality
Usage tip
Use to describe deep, persistent hostility, not momentary anger
Etymology
Latin — from 'rancor' (rancidness, bitter grudge), from 'rancere' (to be rancid)
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Related words
contradict
To state the opposite or deny the truth of something
pushback
Resistance or objection to an idea or plan
apprehensive
Anxious or worried about something that may happen in the future
appease
To pacify or satisfy someone by giving in to their demands
impasse
A deadlock where no progress is possible
conciliatory
Intended to gain goodwill or reduce hostility