Adve'rsity. n.s. [adversité, Fr.]

Affliction; calamity; that is, opposition to our wishes.

1. The cause of our sorrow; affliction; misfortune. In this sense, it may have a plural.

   Let me embrace these sour adversities,
   For wise men say, it is the wisest course. Shakesp. Hen. VI.

2. The state of unhappiness; misery.

   Sweet are the uses of adversity,
   Which like the toad, ugly and venomous,
   Wears yet a precious jewel in his head. Shak. As you like it.

   Concerning deliverance itself from all adversity, we use not to say men are in adversity, whensoever they feel any small hindrance of their welfare in this world, but when some notable affliction or cross, some great calamity or trouble, befalleth them. Hooker, b. v. § 48.

   A remembrance of the good use he had made of prosperity, contributed to support his mind under the heavy weight of adversity, which then lay upon him. Atterbury's Sermons.