Definition

Noun: 1. Two points or places on opposite sides of the Earth: Specifically, any two places that are positioned diametrically opposite each other on the globe, so that a straight line drawn through the Earth's center connects them. 2. A region opposite to another: Often used to refer to a place that is the exact or direct opposite of another location, most famously applied to Australia and New Zealand from a British perspective.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • If you dug a hole straight through the Earth from where you stand, you would theoretically come out at your antipodes.
  • For someone in Spain, the antipodes are likely somewhere in the Pacific Ocean near New Zealand.
  • Early European explorers sometimes referred to Australia as the Antipodes.

Advanced Usage

• "the Antipodes" (capitalized): When capitalized, this term is a proper noun often used to refer specifically to Australia and New Zealand, from the perspective of Europe or North America.
  • He moved from London to the Antipodes to start a new life.

Variants and Related Words

• Antipodal (adjective): Relating to or situated on the opposite side of the Earth.
  • The antipodal point to the city is in the ocean.
• Antipodean (adjective): Of or relating to the Antipodes, especially Australia and New Zealand.
  • She studied Antipodean literature.

Synonyms

• Opposites: Direct opposites, polar opposites.
• Counterparts: (In a geographical sense)

Notes on Meaning

This word originates from the Greek antipodes, meaning "having the feet opposite." It is most precisely used in its geographical sense. Its common use to mean "the exact opposite of something" is an extension of this core meaning.

Noun

1. any two places or regions on diametrically opposite sides of the Earth
   • the North Pole and the South Pole are antipodes