Nemesis is a noun meaning an agent of retribution or vengeance, an archenemy who is extremely difficult to defeat. A nemesis is a source of harm and setbacks, the bane of one’s existence. The word nemesis comes from the Greek nemein, which means to give what is due. The plural is nemeses.
Nemesis was the ancient Greek goddes of divine retribution who would punish any human being who engaged in arrogance in front of the gods. She was often referred to as the Goddess of Rhamnous, a place in Attica which contained a temple consecrated to her. Nemesis is the goddess who led Narcissus to a pool of water, where he became so enamored with his reflection he could not leave it. Nemesis is considered the daughter of Oceanus.
Examples
England’s nemesis faces Kent at Canterbury with much to prove if he is to be given the chance to carry on in Cardiff on July 8 where he left off while spearheading Australia’s 5-0 Ashes triumph. (The Daily Mail)
Speaking to reporters in Brussels after the summit, Tspiras sounded strangely at times like his nemesis — German Chancellor Angela Merkel — whose nation led a bloc of eurozone countries that forced a tough deal. (The Tribune)
For a town that’s been his nemesis for as long as he’s been a songwriter, Gibbard seemed genuinely happy to be back here again. (The Los Angeles Times)
Peyton and Eli are likely contributing to the development of potential NFL quarterbacks, perhaps future nemeses. (The Indianapolis Star)
Where Asylum took place entirely in the titular madhouse, in City, the Caped Crusader took to the skies and streets of Gotham to deal justice to his collection of nemeses. (The Guardian)
Although Harvey and Louis put each other in harm’s way every now and then, they both try to make it up to each other, and with Jack’s presence it seems like this time there is no going back for these nemeses. (The International Business Times)