malicious
Translation
malicious, spiteful
Examples
Someone started a malicious rumor about her.
Someone started a malicious rumour about her.
He was the victim of a malicious attack.
He was the victim of a malicious attack.
Grammar Patterns
((malicious)) + noun intended to harm or upset other people Someone started a malicious rumour about her.
Similar Words
Synonyms: spiteful, malevolent, vicious; Antonyms: benevolent, kind
Etymology
From 'malice' + '-ious' (adjective suffix). Meaning 'full of malice'.
Memory Tips
If someone is 'malicious', they are full of 'malice' (ill will). The '-ious' ending tells you it's an adjective.