Invective: meaning, definitions and examples

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invective

 

[ ɪnˈvɛktɪv ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

spoken language

Insulting, abusive, or highly critical language or speech.

Synonyms

abuse, denunciation, slander, vitriol

Examples of usage

  • He hurled a stream of invective at the referee.
  • She responded with a volley of invective.
  • The politician's speech was filled with invective against his opponent.
  • The online comments were full of invective and hatred.
  • The invective used by the bully was deeply hurtful.

Translations

Translations of the word "invective" in other languages:

🇵🇹 invectiva

🇮🇳 अपशब्द

🇩🇪 Schimpfwort

🇮🇩 kata kasar

🇺🇦 інвектива

🇵🇱 inwektywa

🇯🇵 侮辱

🇫🇷 invective

🇪🇸 invectiva

🇹🇷 ağır söz

🇰🇷 비난

🇸🇦 شتيمة

🇨🇿 invectiva

🇸🇰 invectíva

🇨🇳 侮辱性言辞

🇸🇮 invectiva

🇮🇸 árás

🇰🇿 жамандылық

🇬🇪 ინვექტივა

🇦🇿 şiddətli tənqid

🇲🇽 invectiva

Etymology

The word 'invective' originated from the Latin word 'invectivus', meaning 'attacking'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century, primarily used in reference to abusive language or speech. Over time, 'invective' has retained its meaning of harsh criticism or insults, often used in heated arguments or debates.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,425, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.