feind

Feind is a German noun meaning "enemy." It designates a person, group, or state regarded as opposed or hostile. In everyday language as in war or politics, der Feind refers to a hostile party; die Feinde is the plural. The word carries a strong connotation of opposition, and while it can be used descriptively, it also signals antagonism and conflict.

Etymology: Feind derives from Old High German fiant and belongs to the West Germanic family of terms for adversary. It is cognate with related words in other Germanic languages, such as Dutch vijand. Over time the standard German form Feind became established.

Usage and concepts: The term is used for real opponents and for metaphorical rivals in sports, business, or debate. It also appears in compound terms such as Feindbild (enemy image), Feindseligkeit (hostility toward an opponent), and Feindschaft (enmity). In political rhetoric, the Feind is sometimes demonized to mobilize support or justify action.

Historical and cultural notes: In wartime and authoritarian discourse, der Feind is a central label in propaganda; in liberal and democratic discourse it remains a neutral term for describing opposition. The notion of an inner Feind (innerer Feind) is used in psychology and philosophy to discuss internal conflicts or perceived personal threats.

Related terms include Gegenspieler, Gegner, Feindbild, Feindschaft, Feindseligkeit.