arcinemico

archenemy

noun ar-chee-neh-MEE-koh Rare

Also means

sworn enemy

Usage Note

Arcinemico combines the intensifying prefix arci- (arch-, super-) with nemico (enemy), creating a strong term for a mortal or sworn foe. The prefix arci- appears in many Italian compounds (arciduca, arcivescovo) to mean 'chief' or 'supreme'. It is more dramatic and literary than everyday nemico.

Examples

"Quel politico è il suo arcinemico da anni."

Natural Translation

That politician has been his archenemy for years.

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