Maleficently

Maleficently describes an action, manner, or behavior that is performed with the intention to cause harm, injury, or suffering to another. It implies a deliberate and often spiteful nature, going beyond mere carelessness or accidental harm. The word suggests a conscious effort to inflict pain, whether physical, emotional, or psychological. It is often associated with evil, wickedness, and malevolence. Someone acting maleficently might be driven by revenge, cruelty, or a desire for control and dominance. This word carries strong negative connotations, painting a picture of a harmful agent actively working against the well-being of others. The actions are calculated and often carried out with a cold detachment, making them even more unsettling.

Maleficently meaning with examples

• The sorcerer cast the curse maleficently, reveling in the anticipation of his rival's downfall, the words dripping with venom as he performed the ancient ritual, all focused on bringing as much pain as possible for the perceived injustice. His pleasure in the misfortune was palpable and malicious, leaving no doubt to his intent.
• The corporation, notorious for its environmental disregard, acted maleficently by deliberately dumping toxic waste into the river, poisoning the water supply and causing irreparable damage to the ecosystem, causing widespread disease, death, and suffering for communities downstream.
• Consumed by jealousy, the queen maleficently spread false rumors about her sister, aiming to destroy her reputation and ultimately seize the throne, carefully orchestrating the whispers and manipulation with a cruel glee, taking pleasure in the turmoil.
• The school bully, motivated by insecurity, maleficently tormented his classmates, picking on their vulnerabilities and using threats to intimidate them into compliance. Every insult and taunt was meant to wound, leaving scars that lasted long after he was gone.
• In a twisted act of revenge, the villain maleficently rigged the hero's vehicle with explosives, aiming to cause not just death, but also the public display of his shattered remains. His actions were clearly motivated by his thirst for revenge and to witness his enemies suffer in the worst way.