in a position with regard to somebody or something else that is on at the other end or side of an intervening line or space
We were on opposite sides of the road
said of angles: on opposite sides of a point where two lines intersect
occupying an opposing position
We need to consider the opposite sides of the question
diametrically different; contrary
being the other of a matching or contrasting pair
the opposite sex
said of plant parts: situated in pairs at the same level on opposite sides of an axis: compare alternate1
opposite leaves
oppositely adv
oppositeness noun
[Middle English via French from Latin oppositus, past part. of opponere: see oppose]