adversity UK /ædˈvɜː.sɪ.ti/US /ædˈvɝ.sɪ.ti/ noun2 •The state of adverse conditions; state of misfortune or calamity.The doctor loved the squire, loved him as his oldest friend; but he loved him ten times better as being in adversity than he could ever have done had things gone well at Greshansbury in his time. — 1858 •An event that is adverse; calamity. formsadversities