Malevolent Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈmælɪˈvɒlənt/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

A malevolent person or entity is one that intends to cause harm, evil, or destruction to others, often without just cause or excuse.

Examples

• The plot was driven by the malevolent ambition of the main character.
• The company’s CEO was accused of being malevolent due to his ruthless business tactics.

Synonyms

• Evil
• Maleficent
• Wicked

Antonyms

• Benevolent
• Kind
• Altruistic

Additional Information

Malevolent individuals can cause harm through their actions or decisions, often without considering the consequences or feeling any remorse. They may exhibit a lack of empathy or compassion for others and be driven by a desire for power, control, or gain.

In literature and mythology, malevolent characters are often depicted as villains, monsters, or supernatural beings that pose a significant threat to the protagonist or hero.

Etymology

The word “malevolent” comes from the Latin words “malum” meaning “evil” and “volens” meaning “wishing” or “desiring”.

Usage Notes

In formal writing, it’s common to use “malevolent” to describe someone or something that is intentionally harmful or evil. In informal contexts, the word may be used more colloquially to describe someone who is generally mean-spirited or unpleasant.

Cultural References

In literature, the novel “Dracula” by Bram Stoker features a malevolent vampire who terrorizes Victorian London. In film, the character of Voldemort in the “Harry Potter” series is a prime example of a malevolent force.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“Malevolent spirit” or “a force of malevolence” are common phrases used to describe a entity or energy that is intentionally evil or harmful.

Related Words or Phrases

Words like “evil”, “wicked”, “malicious”, and “nasty” are closely related to “malevolent” in meaning and usage.

Collocations

“Malevolent force”, “malevolent intent”, “malevolent act”, and “malevolent being” are common collocations with the term “malevolent”.

Frequency of Use

The word “malevolent” is not as commonly used as some other adjectives, but it is still a useful term in formal and literary contexts.