Entry 1 sense Webster, 1913 Adversity /ăd-vẽrs'-ĭt-ēˌ/ · Ad·ver·si·ty · IPA /ædˈvɝ.sɪ.ti/ 01 n. Opposition; contrariety. pl. Adversities 1. Opposition; contrariety.[Obs.] “Adversity is not without comforts and hopes.” — Bacon. Syn. Affliction; distress; misery; disaster; trouble; suffering; trial.