Diabolical: meaning, definitions and examples

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diabolical

 

[ ˌdaɪ.əˈbɒl.ɪ.kəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

describing a cruel or wicked person or action

Extremely wicked or cruel; carried out with great evil or cruelty. Diabolical actions are often motivated by a desire to harm others or cause suffering.

Synonyms

cruel, evil, malevolent, wicked

Examples of usage

  • The diabolical villain plotted to destroy the city and everyone in it.
  • Her diabolical plan involved framing her innocent colleague for a crime he didn't commit.
  • The diabolical scheme to overthrow the government was thwarted by the authorities.
Context #2 | Adjective

describing something with an evil or harmful nature

Suggestive of the devil or evil forces; showing a desire to harm others. Diabolical objects, events, or situations often evoke a sense of fear or unease.

Synonyms

devilish, evil, malevolent, sinister

Examples of usage

  • The diabolical laughter echoed through the haunted house, sending shivers down our spines.
  • The diabolical plan to sabotage the peace talks was discovered just in time.
  • The diabolical symbols carved into the walls seemed to pulse with a malevolent energy.

Translations

Translations of the word "diabolical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 diabólico

🇮🇳 शैतानी

🇩🇪 teuflisch

🇮🇩 jahat

🇺🇦 диявольський

🇵🇱 diabelski

🇯🇵 悪魔的な

🇫🇷 diabolique

🇪🇸 diabólico

🇹🇷 şeytani

🇰🇷 악마 같은

🇸🇦 شيطاني

🇨🇿 ďábelský

🇸🇰 diabolský

🇨🇳 恶魔的

🇸🇮 diaboličen

🇮🇸 djöfullegur

🇰🇿 шайтандық

🇬🇪 ეშმაკური

🇦🇿 şeytani

🇲🇽 diabólico

Etymology

The word 'diabolical' has its origins in the Late Middle English period, derived from the Old French word 'diabolique' and the Late Latin word 'diabolicus', both of which mean 'devilish'. The term has been used to describe evil or wicked actions or intentions, often associated with the devil or supernatural forces. Over time, 'diabolical' has become a common adjective to convey extreme cruelty, wickedness, or malevolence.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,772, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.