against

Meanings

1. 1
   prep

   In a contrary direction to.

   It is hard work to swim against the current.

2. 2
   prep

   In physical opposition to; in collision with.

   The rain pounds against the window.

3. 3
   prep

   In physical contact with, so as to abut or be supported by.

   The ladder was leaning against the wall.

4. 4
   prep

   Close to, alongside.

   A row of trees stood against a fence.

5. 5
   prep

   In front of; before (a background).

   The giant was silhouetted against the door.

6. 6
   prep

   In contrast or comparison with.

   There is an awesome authenticity in Barrus's voice which, I imagine, is frightening to those who must evaluate art against a one-dimensional standard of political rectitude.

7. 7
   prep

   In competition with, versus.

   The Tigers will play against the Bears this weekend.

8. 8
   prep

   Contrary to; in conflict with.

   Doing this is against my principles.

Etymology

Etymology tree Proto-Indo-European *h₁én Proto-Germanic *in Proto-Indo-European *ǵʰengʰ-der. Proto-Germanic *ganganąder.? Proto-Germanic *gagin Proto-Germanic *in gagin Proto-West Germanic *in gagin Old English onġēander. Middle English ayenes English against Formed from Middle English ayenes, agenes, againes (“in opposition to”), a southern variant of agen, or directly from again, either way with adverbial genitive singular ending -es; the parasitic -t was added circa 1350, probably by confusion with the superlative ending -est. By surface analysis, again + -st (excrescent ending). Cognate wi…