bad actor

noun

1. a mean, ill-tempered, troublemaking, or evil person.
2. a vicious animal.
3. an inveterate criminal.

Word History and Origins

Origin of bad actor¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

“When we started, Russia had not yet invaded Ukraine. And therefore, Russia was not a bad actor on the international scene, at least not nearly to the degree it is now,” Lithgow said.

From Salon

“If you have a bad actor who wants to violate the rules, he can violate the rules,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

Crypto had no insulation from one bad actor in the market peeing in the punch bowl.

From Slate

“It only takes one bad actor.”

From Seattle Times

Each data breach presents an opportunity for a bad actor to steal someone’s personal information, which can cause serious financial trouble for the victim.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• convict
• crook
• culprit
• felon
• fugitive
• gangster
• hoodlum
• hooligan
• lawbreaker
• mobster
• offender
• thug