againster

noun

against·​er əˈgen(t)-stər How to pronounce againster (audio)
-ˈgin(t)-,
-ˈgān(t)-
plural againsters
informal
: a person who frequently or habitually expresses opposition to the ideas or policies of others
Gerry Ford has always been an "againster." That was the duty of the Republican leadership in the House—never to propose, always to oppose.Thomas P. "Tip" O'Neill, quoted in The (Dubuque, Iowa) Telegraph Herald, 11 Jan. 1976

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of againster was in 1919

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near againster

Cite this Entry

“Againster.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/againster. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!