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malice
[ mal-is ]
/ ˈmæl ɪs /
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This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
noun
desire to inflict injury, harm, or suffering on another, either because of a hostile impulse or out of deep-seated meanness: the malice and spite of a lifelong enemy.
Law. evil intent on the part of a person who commits a wrongful act injurious to others.
OTHER WORDS FOR malice
1 ill will, spite, spitefulness; animosity, enmity; malevolence; venom, hate, hatred; bitterness, rancor.
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Origin of malice
synonym study for malice
1. See grudge.
Words nearby malice
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use malice in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for malice
malice
/ (ˈmælɪs) /
noun
the desire to do harm or mischief
evil intent
law the state of mind with which an act is committed and from which the intent to do wrong may be inferredSee also malice aforethought
Word Origin for malice
C13: via Old French from Latin malitia, from malus evil
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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