Hostile

Characterized by antagonism, unfriendliness, and a strong dislike or opposition. A hostile environment or person displays aggression, whether physical, verbal, or emotional, and indicates a desire to cause harm or discomfort.

Hostility can manifest overtly through direct attacks or subtly through passive-aggressive behaviors and underlying resentment.

It's a state of being actively opposed or demonstrating resistance, often creating an atmosphere of tension and conflict, indicating a lack of cooperation and potential for danger or harm to others or oneself.

Hostile meaning with examples

• The protesters adopted a hostile stance, shouting insults and throwing objects at the police officers guarding the building, demonstrating a clear intent to disrupt the proceedings and express their intense disapproval of the government's policies.
• The company faced a hostile takeover bid from a rival corporation, a move designed to acquire control against the wishes of the current management and shareholders, creating uncertainty and instability within the organization.
• Despite attempts to mediate, the divorce proceedings remained hostile, with both parties engaging in bitter arguments and personal attacks, making it difficult to reach a fair agreement regarding asset division and custody.
• The audience reacted in a hostile manner to the comedian's offensive jokes, expressing their disapproval through booing, heckling, and walking out of the performance, signaling that the material was unacceptable.