What does malice mean Meaning and Definition
What does malice mean
Pronunciation
/ˈmeɪlɪs/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A feeling of ill will, bitterness, or hatred towards someone or something.
Examples
- The phrase ‘you’re harboring malice towards me’ implies a deep-seated grudge.
- Malice was evident in the murderer’s cold-blooded actions.
Synonyms
- Ill will
- Malevolence
Antonyms
- Kindness
- Benevolence
Etymology
The word ‘malice’ comes from the Old French word ‘malice’, derived from the Latin ‘malitia’, meaning ‘badness’, ‘evil’, or ‘wickedness’.
Usage Notes
Malice is often used to describe a deep-seated animosity or hatred towards someone or something. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but is generally more commonly used in formal or literary writing.
Cultural References
Malice has been referenced in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. For example, the novel ‘The Malice of Women’ by Hamlin Garland explores the theme of malice in human relationships.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- ‘with malice aforethought’ – with deliberate and wicked intent
- ‘fear and malice’ – a phrase used to describe a situation where fear and hatred coexist
Related Words or Phrases
- Malevolence
- Ill will
- Spite
Collocations
- Malice towards someone/something
- Malice in the heart
Frequency of Use
Malice is a relatively infrequent term in modern language, but it is still used in formal and literary contexts to convey a sense of deep-seated ill will or hatred.
Common Misspellings
- Maliceous
- Malicy