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Balefully: meaning, definitions and examples

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balefully

 

[ ˈbeɪl.fəl.i ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

manner of expression

The word 'balefully' describes an action or expression that conveys a sense of threatening harm or evil intention. It is often used to characterize glances, looks, or statements that suggest malevolence or foreboding. When someone gazes balefully, it indicates deep hostility or anger, reflecting an ominous or foreboding aura. This term often carries a dramatic connotation, making it useful in literature or descriptions of tense situations.

Synonyms

maliciously, menacingly, ominously, threateningly

Examples of usage

  • He stared balefully at his opponent.
  • The cat moved balefully through the shadows.
  • She balefully warned them to stay away.
  • The baleful look in his eyes sent shivers down her spine.

Translations

Translations of the word "balefully" in other languages:

🇵🇹 malévolo

🇮🇳 दुर्भावनापूर्ण

🇩🇪 bösartig

🇮🇩 jahat

🇺🇦 злісно

🇵🇱 złośliwie

🇯🇵 不吉に

🇫🇷 maléfiques

🇪🇸 malévolamente

🇹🇷 kötü niyetle

🇰🇷 악의적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل ضار

🇨🇿 zlověstně

🇸🇰 zlovestne

🇨🇳 恶意地

🇸🇮 zlohotno

🇮🇸 illgjarnan

🇰🇿 жамандықпен

🇬🇪 დაუკითხავად

🇦🇿 pis niyyətlə

🇲🇽 malévolamente

Etymology

The word 'balefully' originates from the adjective 'baleful,' which is derived from the Middle English term 'baleful,' meaning 'full of harm or evil.' This adjective has roots in Old English 'beald' meaning 'bold' and 'fælh' meaning 'deadly or harmful.' The evolution of 'baleful' can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic '*baldwaz,' translating to 'bold' or 'brave.' Over time, 'baleful' acquired the additional meaning of having a sense of evil or harmful intent. The adverb form 'balefully' came into usage to describe actions that embody this ominous quality. Its usage has persisted into modern English, particularly in literary contexts to evoke strong imagery or emotional responses.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,950, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.