rancour
Translation
rancor, bitterness, resentment
Examples
He spoke without any rancour.
He spoke without any rancor.
There was a great deal of rancour between them.
There was a great deal of rancor between them.
Grammar Patterns
((between sb.)) rancor between people There was rancor between the two families.
Similar Words
Synonyms: bitterness, resentment, malice; Antonyms: goodwill, friendliness
Etymology
From Old French 'rancor' (bitterness), from Latin 'rancorem' (rankness, bitterness). Note the '-our' spelling in British English vs. '-or' in American English.
Memory Tips
Imagine someone holding a grudge for so long it has become 'rank' or spoiled, like rancid butter. That deep-seated bitterness is rancor.