as in dynamic
having or marked by a strong desire to win or be better than others
The two siblings shared a rivalrous but ultimately loving relationship.
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of rivalrous
The rivalrous power dynamic between Jones and frontman Jagger is captured in brilliant subtlety in the glances between them during an impromptu interview.
—
Sheri Linden, The Hollywood Reporter, 6 Nov. 2023
A little more than a year ago, Kentucky men’s basketball coach John Calipari and Louisville men’s basketball coach Chris Mack were publicly exchanging rivalrous barbs ahead of the 2020-21 season, a season which saw the Cardinals defeat the Wildcats.
—Hayes Gardner, The Courier-Journal, 28 Jan. 2022
Every great day is like every other, all the Barbies are sparkling and chipper, and the Kens in this world are their rivalrous, doe-eyed admirers.
—Peter Rainer, The Christian Science Monitor, 20 July 2023
But dealing with my rivalrous siblings, the pedantries and the cliques, the teasing and the treacheries, strengthened me and taught me to be an attentive listener, with a kind of watchfulness and negotiating skills that were invaluable to me as a traveller, especially in hostile places.
—Paul Theroux, The New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2021
See all Example Sentences for rivalrous 
Sheri Linden, The Hollywood Reporter, 6 Nov. 2023
A little more than a year ago, Kentucky men’s basketball coach John Calipari and Louisville men’s basketball coach Chris Mack were publicly exchanging rivalrous barbs ahead of the 2020-21 season, a season which saw the Cardinals defeat the Wildcats.
—Hayes Gardner, The Courier-Journal, 28 Jan. 2022
Every great day is like every other, all the Barbies are sparkling and chipper, and the Kens in this world are their rivalrous, doe-eyed admirers.
—Peter Rainer, The Christian Science Monitor, 20 July 2023
But dealing with my rivalrous siblings, the pedantries and the cliques, the teasing and the treacheries, strengthened me and taught me to be an attentive listener, with a kind of watchfulness and negotiating skills that were invaluable to me as a traveller, especially in hostile places.
—Paul Theroux, The New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2021
See all Example Sentences for rivalrous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rivalrous
Adjective
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That would be an ideal situation and vastly change the power dynamic when dealing with Putin.—
CBS News,
CBS News,
16 Feb. 2025
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The backcourt duo is one of the most dynamic in the Big Ten this season, and slowing them down will be a major key to success for Purdue on Saturday.—
Josh Hammer,
Newsweek,
15 Feb. 2025
Adjective
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State Senator Kelly Hancock, who sponsored the state’s 2017 autonomous-driving legislation, said the legislature wanted to promote the industry’s growth in a competitive marketplace and avoid barriers to entry.—
Chris Kirkham and Abhirup Roy,
USA TODAY,
11 Feb. 2025
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The space is competitive as more apparel retailers from around the world gain a foothold in the U.S. The company also has room to grow its e-commerce operations, where Uniqlo lags many of its rivals.—
Christian Nunley,
CNBC,
11 Feb. 2025
Adjective
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The carrier is also offering the T-Mobile Starlink service directly to all wireless users, including customers of rival telecom firms AT&T T.N and Verizon VZ.N without having to switch.—
Harshita Mary Varghese,
USA TODAY,
11 Feb. 2025
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Mulgrew started the meet strong with a victory in the 200 yard freestyle, besting rival Nicholas Cavic of Seekonk (1:40.24).—
Marcello Rossetti,
Boston Herald,
10 Feb. 2025
Adjective
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That judgment works for me, but of course in their lively custom NR readers should feel free to improve my understanding of the matter in the comments section.—
Neal B. Freeman,
National Review,
11 Feb. 2025
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If the fashion on the sidelines wasn't enough to hype up attendees, a lively dance performance to kick off the runway show did the trick.—
Anika Reed,
USA TODAY,
11 Feb. 2025
Adjective
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Just about anyone would struggle to contain Mohamed Salah and his strike-partners while in a determined mood.—
Sam Tighe,
The Athletic,
14 Feb. 2025
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An upbeat and determined person by nature, Ms. Donlon bristled at her sister’s disheartened words.—
Christopher Maag,
New York Times,
14 Feb. 2025
Thesaurus Entries Near rivalrous
Cite this Entry
“Rivalrous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rivalrous. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.
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