Definition

To cause someone to feel angry or hostile towards you by your actions or words.

Example

His constant teasing began to antagonize his friends.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I don't understand why Jake is always so rude to Sarah.

Maybe he doesn't realize he tends to antagonize people with his comments.

That's true, but he really should try to be nicer.

Exactly! It would make things a lot easier for everyone.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Antagonize → It is formed from "anti-" (meaning against) and "agonizesthai" (meaning to struggle or contend). The word describes the act of causing someone to struggle or contend against you, hence creating opposition.

Memory Tip

Think of 'against' ('anti-') and 'struggling' ('agonizesthai') to remember that to antagonize means to cause someone to struggle against you.

Visually Confused Words