1. people who actively oppose or are hostile to someone or something
2. the main characters who oppose the heroes in stories, plays, or movies
Usage: literary
3. substances that block or counteract the effects of other substances
Usage: medical; scientific

Examples

• The two political antagonists debated fiercely on television.
• In the novel, the antagonists plotted against the main character.
• The superhero faced multiple antagonists in the final battle.
• These drug antagonists can help reduce harmful side effects.
• The antagonists in the play were well-developed characters.
• Researchers studied how certain antagonists affect brain chemistry.
• The story’s antagonists had complex motivations for their actions.