- Today's Word
Malevolent
muh-LEV-uh-lent
Definition
(adjective) Having or showing a desire to cause harm or do evil.
Example
The villain’s malevolent glare sent chills down their spines.
Fun Fact
From Latin male (“badly”) + volens (“wishing”), malevolent literally means “wishing ill.” It’s often reserved for characters or acts that are deliberately cruel. In literature, Disney villains and Gothic horror figures embody malevolence, as do real-world tyrants whose actions stem from malice rather than misunderstanding.
(noun/verb) A long, forceful, and aggressive speech. / To lecture someone in an intense, critical, or ranting manner.
The coach launched into a fiery harangue, chastising the team for their lack of effort.
From Middle French harangue meaning “public address,” rooted in assembly or gathering spaces where long speeches were delivered.