/
ˈnɛmɪsɪs/
n.
(pl. nemeses
/-siːz/
)
- the inescapable agent of someone's downfall, especially when deserved.
▸a downfall caused by an inescapable agent.
- chiefly N. Amer. a long-standing or persistent rival or enemy.
Etymology
C16: Gk, lit. ‘retribution’, personified as the goddess of divine punishment.