nemesis Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun (Greek mythology) the goddess of divine retribution and vengeance
  2. noun something causing misery or death
    bane; curse; scourge.
    • the bane of my life

WordNet

Nem"e*sis noun
Etymology
L., fr. gr. , orig., distribution, fr. to distribute. See Nomad.
Definitions
  1. (Class. Myth.) The goddess of retribution or vengeance; hence, retributive justice personified; divine vengeance.
    This is that ancient doctrine of nemesis who keeps watch in the universe, and lets no offense go unchastised. Emerson.

Webster 1913