nemesis

[ nem-uh-sis ]
/ ˈnɛm ə sɪs /

noun, plural nem·e·ses [nem-uh-seez] /ˈnɛm əˌsiz/.

something that a person cannot conquer, achieve, etc.: The performance test proved to be my nemesis.
an opponent or rival whom a person cannot best or overcome.
(initial capital letter) Classical Mythology. the goddess of divine retribution.
an agent or act of retribution or punishment.

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Origin of nemesis

< Latin < Greek némesis literally, a dealing out, verbid of némein to dispense (justice); see -sis

Example sentences from the Web for nemesis

British Dictionary definitions for nemesis

Nemesis
/ (ˈnɛmɪsɪs) /

noun plural -ses (-ˌsiːz)

Greek myth the goddess of retribution and vengeance
(sometimes not capital) any agency of retribution and vengeance

Word Origin for Nemesis

C16: via Latin from Greek: righteous wrath, from némein to distribute what is due

Cultural definitions for nemesis

Nemesis
[ (nem-uh-sis) ]

In classical mythology, the Greek goddess of vengeance.

notes for Nemesis

By extension, a “nemesis” is an avenger. One's nemesis is that which will bring on one's destruction or downfall.