adjective
malevolent
muh-LEV-uh-lunt/məˈlevələnt/
Having or showing a wish to harm others.
His malevolent action destroys his colleague’s flower arrangement.
Etymology
The pieces express wishing evil toward others. Malevolent therefore describes not just something bad, but a disposition or desire for someone else to suffer.
In context
a malevolent being known as the jester terrorizes the inhabitants of a small town on Halloween night
More examples
- She sensed malevolent intent behind the threat.
- The rumor was spread for a malevolent purpose.
- The story’s spirit is openly malevolent toward the family.
Forms
malevolent · more malevolent · most malevolent
malevolence noun — a wish to harm others
Similar words
- malicious
- Malicious intends harm; malevolent often suggests a deeper or sustained ill will.
- spiteful
- Spiteful seeks petty hurt or retaliation; malevolent can imply broader evil intent.