ill nature

American  

noun

1. unkindly or unpleasant disposition.

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Etymology

Origin of ill nature

First recorded in 1685–95

Example Sentences

This wrestling has cost the Castigator ill nature, megalomania, nervous breakdowns and the creatures of his forced moods are far less credible, as contemporary humanity, than Hogarth's Gin Alleyites, Swift's Anglo-Lilliputs or even Dante's infernals.

From Time Magazine Archive

A bad temper, ill nature, jealousy, will ruin the most beautiful face ever created.

From Pushing to the Front by Marden, Orison Swett

Indeed they were so pulled to pieces all round, by the sharp talons of ill nature, that they were not left too many virtues to plume themselves with.

From The Life of a Celebrated Buccaneer A Page of Past History for the Use of the Children of To-day by Clynton, Richard

It was a part of her unexpectedness that she took the heavy literal view of Nick's behaviour; declared frankly, though without ill nature, that she had no patience with his mistake.

From The Tragic Muse by James, Henry

But if the ill nature of the laws has been so cruel as to clap up such fine hearty blades, we are no felons, however.

From The Shepherd of Salisbury Plain and Other Tales by More, Hannah