malevolence

[ muh-lev-uh-luhns ]

noun

1. the quality, state, or feeling of being malevolent; ill will; malice; hatred.

   Synonyms: spitefulness, maliciousness, venom, grudge, spite

Word History and Origins

Origin of malevolence¹

First recorded in 1425–75; from Latin malevolentia, from malevolent- (stem of malevolēns malevolent ) + -ia -y; replacing late Middle English malivolence, from Middle French, from Latin, as above

Synonym Study

Malevolence, malignity, rancor suggest the wishing of harm to others. Malevolence is a smoldering ill will: a vindictive malevolence in her expression. Malignity is a deep-seated and virulent disposition to injure; it is more dangerous than malevolence, because it is not only more completely concealed but it often instigates harmful acts: The malignity of his nature was shocking. Rancor is a lasting, corrosive, and implacable hatred and resentment.

Example Sentences

The show reveals that Agatha’s nihilistic malevolence stems from her tortured relationship with her mother, who told her she was inherently and irredeemably evil and tried to kill her with her own coven.

From Los Angeles Times

Presented as compelling theater, they brought in-depth insight into our often simplistic attempts to understand the Russian mind, with its complex aspirations, fears and insecurity that can lead to greatness, grandiosity or outright malevolence.

From Los Angeles Times

Szaniawski, who acknowledges that the audience is meant to recognize Torrance is "completely insane," added that the film nevertheless shows that Jack's malevolence is also rooted in commonplace misogyny.

From Salon

Sheen shows the prince as out of his depth in front of such malevolence.

From BBC

The malevolence is never that hard to see, however.

From Salon

Related Words

• antagonism
• grudge
• hostility
• ill will
• maliciousness
• nastiness
• spitefulness
• vindictiveness