Invader: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone or a group that enters a place, usually a country or territory, with the intention to conquer or take control by force.

• The invaders broke through the city walls.
• The ancient city fell to the invaders within days.

Describes an entity that initiates hostilities or attacks another, often used in the context of starting a conflict or war.

• The country was deemed the aggressor in the conflict.
• International sanctions were imposed on the aggressor nation.

Refers to a force that takes control of a place and remains there, often associated with prolonged military occupation.

• The occupiers enforced strict curfews on the local population.
• After years of occupation, the occupiers were finally driven out.

Describes someone who makes a sudden, surprise attack, typically for the purpose of stealing or causing destruction.

• The village was often targeted by armed raiders.
• The castle was sacked by a group of raiders during the night.

Used when referring to someone or a group that forcibly enters a place or territory without permission. Often used in historical or military contexts.

• The medieval castle was designed to repel invaders.
• The town prepared defenses against the incoming invaders.

General term for someone who is opposed or hostile to someone else. Can be used in various contexts, including personal, military, or political situations.

• During the war, they considered each other enemies.
• He realized his best friend had become his enemy.

A somewhat formal word for an opponent or enemy, often used in literature or discussions of serious conflicts.

• The hero faced his greatest foe in the final battle.
• Diplomats worked tirelessly to turn former foes into allies.

Used in contexts of competition or disagreement, such as sports, debates, or legal battles. Generally has a less hostile connotation compared to 'enemy' or 'foe'.

• The chess player studied his opponent's moves carefully.
• In the debate, she presented strong arguments against her opponent.

Used when referring to an entity that enters a place forcefully, usually with the intent to conquer or harm.

• The castle was defended against the invader.
• History shows that invaders often bring about significant change.

Commonly used to describe a being from another planet or, in some cases, a foreign person or thing. The word can carry a slightly negative connotation when referring to people.

• They found traces of unknown technology; it must be alien.
• The new policies affected both citizens and aliens residing in the country.

Specifically describes something or someone originating outside the Earth. Used mainly in scientific or speculative contexts.

• Scientists are searching for extraterrestrial life.
• The movie is about an extraterrestrial being stranded on Earth.

Generally refers to any living being, often strange or unfamiliar. It is a neutral term and can be applied to real or fictional beings.

• They discovered a strange creature in the deep sea.
• The creature from the legend has haunted the village for centuries.