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malevolence
noun
Synonyms
malice, malevolence, ill will, spite, malignity, spleen, grudge mean the desire to see another experience pain, injury, or distress.
malice implies a deep-seated often unexplainable desire to see another suffer.
malevolence suggests a bitter persistent hatred that is likely to be expressed in malicious conduct.
ill will implies a feeling of antipathy of limited duration.
spite implies petty feelings of envy and resentment that are often expressed in small harassments.
malignity implies deep passion and relentlessness.
spleen suggests the wrathful release of latent spite or persistent malice.
grudge implies a harbored feeling of resentment or ill will that seeks satisfaction.
Examples of malevolence in a Sentence
Word History
15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Dictionary Entries Near malevolence
Cite this Entry
“Malevolence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/malevolence. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
malevolence
nounMore from Merriam-Webster on malevolence
Nglish: Translation of malevolence for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of malevolence for Arabic Speakers
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