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Malicious

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Intended to cause harm or pain; spiteful.
2. Showing or having a desire to harm others or see them suffer.
3. Acting with ill will or a harmful motive.
4. In computing, referring to software or activities designed to damage or disrupt systems.
5. Characterized by a desire to injure, defame, or mislead others.

History and Origin

The word “malicious” comes from the Latin malitiosus, which means “full of ill will or spite.” It is derived from malitia, meaning “evil intent” or “wickedness,” based on malus, meaning “bad” or “evil.” The term has been used in English since the 14th century to describe harmful actions done with evil intent. Over time, the word’s meaning expanded beyond personal spite to include harmful actions in various contexts, such as legal, social, and technological domains.

Detailed Explanation

“Malicious” refers to behavior or actions that are intentionally harmful, often done out of spite or ill will. It is commonly used to describe individuals who deliberately seek to cause pain, injury, or distress to others, whether emotionally, physically, or reputationally. In legal terms, malicious actions may involve intentional wrongdoing that is done with an evil or hostile motive. In the context of technology, “malicious” is used to describe software or actions, such as viruses or hacking, designed to disrupt, damage, or compromise computer systems and data. The essence of being malicious is the intent behind the action, as it reflects a deliberate effort to cause harm.

Example Sentences

1. The malicious rumors spread about her were completely unfounded.
2. His malicious comments hurt the feelings of many in the office.
3. The hacker used malicious software to gain unauthorized access to the database.
4. She filed a lawsuit for defamation after the malicious article was published.
5. The malicious intent behind the prank became apparent when it caused significant damage.
6. The government investigated the malicious destruction of public property.
7. The email contained a malicious link that infected the system with a virus.
8. His malicious behavior at the party led to his expulsion from the group.
9. They were accused of malicious prosecution in an attempt to ruin their reputation.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Spiteful – Showing a desire to irritate or hurt someone, similar to malicious behavior.
2. Malevolent – Having or showing a desire to cause harm or evil, closely aligned with malicious intent.
3. Harmful – Causing damage or injury, often intentionally, as in malicious actions.
4. Vindictive – Seeking revenge or punishment, typically in a harmful or malicious manner.
5. Nasty – Unpleasant, often in a mean-spirited or malicious way, intended to cause discomfort or harm.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Malice – The intention or desire to cause harm, a key element in being malicious.
2. Hostile – Showing aggression or ill will, similar to malicious intent.
3. Spite – A desire to irritate, annoy, or harm others, often for no reason other than revenge or dislike.
4. Vengeful – Seeking revenge or retaliation, a characteristic often found in malicious actions.
5. Cruel – Inflicting pain or suffering intentionally, typically a form of malicious behavior.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Vicious – Deliberately cruel or violent, often associated with malicious intent.
2. Destructive – Causing harm or damage, a key outcome of malicious actions.
3. Devious – Characterized by deceitful or dishonest behavior, often with malicious intent.
4. Wicked – Morally wrong or evil, similar to malicious in its harmful nature.
5. Malignant – Having a harmful or deadly nature, often used in a context similar to malicious.

Antonyms

1. Benevolent
2. Kind
3. Compassionate
4. Friendly
5. Altruistic