malice

IPA

Dictionary definition of malice

The desire to harm or hurt others, often characterized by a feeling of ill will or spite.
"The statement was made with malice and intended to hurt."

Detailed meaning of malice

It can be used to describe an intentional and deliberate desire to cause harm or injury to another person or group of people. It is often motivated by feelings of anger, resentment, or jealousy and is often associated with a lack of empathy or compassion. Malice can manifest in various forms such as verbal or physical abuse, spreading false rumors, or causing harm through deceit or manipulation. It is often considered a negative or harmful quality and is opposed to virtues such as kindness, compassion, and generosity. In legal terms, malice is often required to be present in order to prove certain criminal charges such as murder.

Example sentences containing malice

1. The suspect's actions were driven by pure malice, with no regard for the consequences.
2. The victim forgave her attacker, refusing to hold onto any lingering malice.
3. The malicious rumors spread with a calculated malice, causing harm to innocent individuals.
4. His smile concealed the malice in his heart, masking his true intentions.
5. The courtroom was filled with tension as the prosecutor presented evidence of malice.
6. The malicious email was intended to sow discord and incite malice among colleagues.

History and etymology of malice

The noun 'malice' finds its origins in Middle English and Old French. It can be traced back to the Old French term 'malice,' which in turn comes from the Latin word 'malitia.' 'Malitia' is derived from 'malus,' meaning 'bad' or 'evil.' Over time, 'malice' evolved in the English language to describe the desire or intention to harm or hurt others, often accompanied by a sense of ill will, spite, or malevolence. It embodies the concept of harboring wicked or harmful intentions towards someone and is often associated with actions driven by hatred or a desire for revenge. The term 'malice' carries a strong connotation of deliberate wrongdoing and ill intent.

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Further usage examples of malice

1. The character's actions were motivated by malice, seeking revenge at any cost.
2. The bully's words were laced with malice, designed to inflict emotional harm.
3. The malice in her eyes was unmistakable as she confronted her rival.
4. The malice behind the sabotage was revealed, exposing the true culprit.
5. The malicious hacker infiltrated the company's system with the intent to cause harm.
6. The character's malicious intent became evident as the plot unfolded.
7. The bitter divorce was marked by a malice that poisoned their once loving relationship.
8. The malicious gossip tore apart friendships and fueled animosity.
9. The anonymous message was filled with malice, targeting the recipient with hurtful words.
10. The court recognized the malice in the defendant's actions, leading to a severe sentence.
11. The malicious act of vandalism left a community in shock and disbelief.
12. The malice in his voice was evident as he hurled insults at his opponent.
13. The villain's malicious laughter echoed through the room, sending chills down everyone's spine.
14. The malicious plot was carefully orchestrated, aiming to ruin the reputation of an innocent person.

maliciousness,malignity,nastiness,spitefulness,venom,viciousness,vindictiveness

eb68db_930a3698583347c8903c997c40fb2130.mp3

spite, goodwill, kindness, benevolence

animosity,animus,bitterness,enmity,hatred,hostility,malevolence,rancor,spite

Prefix mal-, Conflict and Disagreement, Ravage and Ruin, Deterioration and Decline, Scorn and Censure, Social Hierarchy and Relationships, Middle School 8, Anger and Hatred