Definitions

antagonize

[an-tag-uh-nahyz] / ænˈtæg əˌnaɪz /

VERB

cause problem; oppose

Synonyms

STRONGEST

alienate anger annoy irritate offend

STRONG

counteract estrange insult neutralize repel struggle

WEAK

work against

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid calm make happy please soothe

WEAK

agree help

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Why would he show up and antagonize the justices?

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026

As was the lesson of “Saltburn,” never antagonize a minion.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 11, 2026

Ordinarily, that would be the last thing that anyone would do is antagonize a judge like that.

From Slate • Jan. 26, 2024

To fear and antagonize these animals makes sense from an evolutionary standpoint.

From Salon • Jan. 8, 2024

I have to remind myself not to antagonize her.

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman