adverse

/ˈæd.və(ɹ)s/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: adverser · adversest

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Unfavorable; antagonistic in purpose or effect; hostile; actively opposing one's interests or wishes; contrary to one's welfare; acting against; working in an opposing direction.

Adjective

Examples

adverse criticism

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Opposed; contrary; opposing one's interests or desire.

Adjective

Examples

adverse circumstances

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “adverse” mean?

Unfavorable; antagonistic in purpose or effect; hostile; actively opposing one's interests or wishes; contrary to one's welfare; acting against; working in an opposing direction.

Is “adverse” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.