rival
/ˈraɪvəl/
noun
Origin
Latin
rivalis — one living near or using the same stream
Overview
Meaning Now
- A person or thing competing with another for the same objective or for superiority in the same field of activity.
- A person or thing that is in a position to equal or surpass another.
Literal older meaning
one who uses the same stream
Language path
Latin → French → English
Earliest form
rival
Earliest period
late 16th century
Journey
The word stems from Roman agricultural life. Since water was scarce, neighbors sharing the same 'rivus' (stream) frequently litigated over its usage. This legal friction expanded the meaning of 'rivalis' to denote any person in a position of conflict or competition.
Evolution
- Classical Latin
rivus
“stream, brook”
- Late Latin
rivalis
“person using the same brook”
Neighbors often had disputes over water rights.
- Old French
rival
“competitor”
- Middle English
rival
“competitor, adversary”
Adopted into English from French.
Connections
Word parts
riv
root
stream
al
suffix
pertaining to
Related words
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External references use DefinedTerm semantics.