Malevolent
mediumNegative tonemuh-LEV-uh-lunt
adjective
Definition
Having or showing a wish to do evil to others
Memory hook
MALE VIOLENT — imagine a violent male villain wishing evil upon everyone.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The malevolent villain plotted the hero's downfall.”
“There was something malevolent in his gaze.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The ______ villain plotted the hero's downfall.”
Show answer
malevolent
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Malevolent is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "malicious" or "spiteful" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "benevolent".
Related GRE Words
rancorous
Characterized by bitterness or resentment
baleful
Threatening harm; menacing; having a harmful or destructive effect
injurious
Causing or likely to cause damage or harm
noxious
Harmful, poisonous, or very unpleasant
animosity
Strong hostility or hatred
antagonistic
Showing or feeling active opposition or hostility toward someone or something
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