malicious

[muh-lish-uhs]

adjective

1. full of, characterized by, or showing malice; intentionally harmful; spiteful.

   malicious gossip.

2. Law.,  vicious, wanton, or mischievous in motivation or purpose.

malicious

/ məˈlɪʃəs /

adjective

1. characterized by malice

2. motivated by wrongful, vicious, or mischievous purposes

Other Word Forms

• maliciously adverb
• maliciousness noun
• nonmalicious adjective
• nonmaliciously adverb
• semimalicious adjective
• semimaliciously adverb
• unmalicious adjective
• unmaliciously adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of malicious¹

First recorded in 1175–1225; Middle English malicius, from Old French, from Latin malitiōsus; malice, -ous

Example Sentences

They were arrested on suspicion of "malicious communications following a public stunt in Windsor" and remained in custody, Thames Valley Police said.

From BBC

“There’s no evidence of a malicious intent on my part to undermine the mission of the FBI,” Baca said.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Rangarajan admits that the hackers could have caused major disruption if they have installed malicious software or hampered communications during an election.

From BBC

In August, USA Today reported that ICE sent an email solicitation to deputies nationwide, leading the head of the National Sheriff’s Assn. to call the move “either galactically stupid or purposefully malicious.”

From Los Angeles Times

But the hacker would not say if they have successfully stolen private data from JLR or installed malicious software onto the company's network.

From BBC

Related Words

• malevolent 
• malignant 
• mischievous 
• nasty 
• pernicious 
• petty 
• spiteful 
• vengeful 
• venomous 
• vicious 
• virulent 
• wicked