Word
malevolent
Meanings
Wanting to harm others; having evil or cruel intentions.
Showing or suggesting a desire to harm; giving an impression of cruelty or threat.
Definition
Malevolent describes someone or something that wants to harm others or takes pleasure in causing harm.
Malevolent means having a strong wish to do evil or hurt people. It often describes a person’s character, their intentions, or the feeling they give you. You can also use it for actions, looks, or atmospheres that seem threatening and cruel.
Examples
- The villain had a malevolent grin.
- I sensed a malevolent intent behind his friendly words.
- The story begins with a malevolent force haunting the village.
- Her malevolent stare made everyone uncomfortable.