Fiendish

Adjective. Characterized by extreme cruelty, wickedness, or cunning; resembling or suggestive of a fiend. This word often describes actions or schemes that are particularly malicious, treacherous, or characterized by a diabolical creativity that implies a high level of intelligence or craftiness. It can also convey an element of pleasure derived from the misdeeds or pain of others. Originating from the term 'fiend,' which refers to an evil spirit or devil, 'fiendish' implies a level of malevolence that is both intentionally harmful and delightfully deceitful.

Fiendish meaning with examples

• The villain's fiendish plan involved not only stealing the crown jewels but also framing the king for the crime, showcasing a level of cunning and ruthlessness that left everyone astounded. Each move was meticulously calculated to ensure maximum chaos and despair, illustrating an extraordinary dedication to his wicked goals. Victims of the plot were completely blindsided, proving how effectively he had concealed his malicious intentions beneath a facade of respectability.
• The children's horror movie was filled with a fiendish sense of humor, pairing terrifying monsters with sly jokes that made even the adults squirm but laugh. It cleverly depicted dark themes in a comedic light, making it an engaging watch for audiences seeking a unique blend of fright and fun. The creators balanced comedy and fear so expertly that viewers found themselves jumping out of their seats yet chuckling at the cleverly crafted punchlines.
• Her fiendish game strategy effectively dismantled her competitors, utilizing psychological manipulation that made even the most experienced players second-guess themselves. By creating feints and deceptive moves that appeared innocent at first, she managed to control the game, leading her opponents into traps of their own making. This mastery of mind games left her victorious, illustrating the fine line between playful competition and ruthless ambition.
• The scientist’s fiendish experiment raised ethical questions, as she utilized controversial methods to push the limits of genetic modification. Her research aimed to create genetically modified organisms that could withstand extreme conditions, but the ramifications of her work included a possible ecological disaster. Critics argued that her pursuit of knowledge overshadowed the responsibility to consider the potential consequences of unleashing her creations into the wild.