Meaning & use
malevolence
Last updated
A deep-seated desire to cause harm or see others suffer; ill will.
See it in a sentence
The villain's malevolence was clear from the moment he smiled at their misfortune.
There was no malevolence in her joke, only clumsy timing.
A note on using this word
Malevolence describes an underlying attitude or intention, while its adjective form "malevolent" is often used to describe a look, smile, or presence that seems to radiate that intent.
Words with a similar meaning
malicespite
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
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