diabolical

IPA

Dictionary definition of diabolical

Wicked, evil, or fiendishly cruel in nature, often associated with actions, plans, or schemes that are malevolent and deeply harmful.
"The villain's diabolical plan was uncovered just in time."

Detailed meaning of diabolical

When we characterize something as diabolical, we are emphasizing its sinister and morally reprehensible qualities, signifying a level of depravity or malevolence that goes beyond mere wrongdoing. Diabolical actions or intentions are typically marked by cunning, malice, and a complete disregard for ethical or moral standards. This term conveys a sense of evil that is often calculated and deliberate, evoking fear and repulsion due to the sheer malevolence and cruelty of the subject at hand.

Example sentences containing diabolical

1. The villain's diabolical plot threatened to destroy the entire city.
2. Her manipulation of the situation was nothing short of diabolical.
3. The criminal mastermind hatched a diabolical scheme to evade capture.
4. The dictator's diabolical reign of terror left a scar on the nation.
5. The consequences of his actions were truly diabolical, causing widespread suffering.
6. She had a diabolical talent for twisting people's words to her advantage.

History and etymology of diabolical

The adjective 'diabolical' has its etymological origins in Late Latin and Greek. It is derived from the Late Latin word 'diabolicus,' which, in turn, comes from the Greek word 'diabolos.' In Greek, 'diabolos' referred to a slanderer or accuser, often with malicious intent. This term was used in the New Testament of the Bible to describe the devil or Satan as the ultimate accuser or adversary. Over time, 'diabolicus' in Latin took on the broader meaning of wicked, evil, or malevolent. When it entered English as 'diabolical,' it retained this sense of describing actions, plans, or schemes that are fiendishly cruel, deeply harmful, or malevolent in nature. The etymology of 'diabolical' effectively conveys the notion of extreme evil and malice, emphasizing its association with malevolent and sinister qualities.

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Further usage examples of diabolical

1. The horror movie featured a diabolical antagonist who haunted viewers' nightmares.
2. The diabolical nature of the crime shocked even the most seasoned detectives.
3. His diabolical laughter sent shivers down the spines of those who heard it.
4. The diabolical plan to sabotage the competition was exposed just in time.
5. Overcoming the diabolical challenges required unwavering determination.
6. Her laughter had a diabolical undertone that sent shivers down my spine.
7. The maze was so complicated; it must've been designed by a diabolical genius.
8. I've never tasted anything as diabolical as that bitter drink.
9. The movie's twist was positively diabolical and left the audience in shock.
10. She wore a diabolical grin as she unveiled her latest invention.
11. The heat outside is simply diabolical today!
12. His diabolical scheme involved manipulating everyone around him.
13. The puzzle was diabolical, stumping even the most experienced players.
14. After hours of trying, he finally deciphered the diabolical code.
15. The cat looked at me with diabolical intent before knocking over the vase.
16. The diabolical nature of the riddle kept me up all night.
17. That roller coaster was diabolical; I've never felt such adrenaline!
18. His tactics in the game were so diabolical, no one saw his strategy coming.
19. With a diabolical glint in her eyes, she announced her next move.
20. That horror novel had the most diabolical plot twist I've ever read.
21. The storm outside is growing in its diabolical fury.
22. Why would anyone think of such a diabolical way to hide the treasure?
23. The dessert was deceptively sweet but had a diabolical kick of spice.
24. Faced with the diabolical challenge ahead, the team came together in unity.