Maledict Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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maledict

[ˈmælɪˌdɪkt ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

cursing

To speak evil of; to curse; to wish evil to befall; to execrate.

Synonyms

curse, damn, hex.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
maledict	Used in formal or literary contexts, often to describe a formal or ceremonial curse. The ancient text warned of those who maledict others with dark intentions. Priests in the old tales would maledict those who defiled their sacred spaces.
curse	Commonly used in everyday language, can refer to both a literal curse (spell) and swearing/using bad language. It may have a negative tone. She believed the old witch had cursed her family. He started to curse when he realized he had lost his wallet.
damn	Often used more casually, frequently expresses frustration or anger. It can also be used to condemn someone or something. It carries a negative connotation. Damn, I forgot my keys again! The critics damned his latest work, calling it uninspired and dull.
hex	Used primarily to describe a magical spell or charm intended to cause harm or misfortune. It is less formal than 'maledict' but often used in supernatural or folk contexts. She claimed her neighbor had hexed her garden, making the plants wither away. The villagers avoided the house, fearing they might be hexed if they got too close.

Examples of usage

He maledicted his enemies before the battle.
The witch maledicted the villagers with a curse.
The old man maledicted anyone who dared to enter his property.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

Maledict often appears in classic literature, where characters curse their enemies or express deep disdain.
Shakespeare used similar themes, showcasing characters expressing hatred through eloquent language.
Some poets employ maledict to emphasize emotion, adding weight to their verses with harsh words.

Psychology

Studies suggest that using harmful language can lead to lower self-esteem in those targeted.
People who frequently engage in maledict may experience increased negative emotions and social isolation.
The psychological impact of being maledicted can last well beyond the moment it occurs, affecting relationships.

Cultural Aspects

Different cultures have unique forms of malediction, sometimes using rituals or specific phrases to curse others.
In many languages, words that carry a maledict connotation can be particularly powerful and taboo.
The act of cursing or maledicting is often seen in folk tales, where it invokes themes of justice or revenge.

Pop Culture

In movies and TV shows, characters often maledict to showcase their villainous traits or create dramatic tension.
Rap music often includes maledict themes, using harsh words to convey struggle, anger, or rejection.
Video games may involve characters who use maledict as a form of magical attack in fantasy settings.

Origin of 'maledict'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from Latin 'maledictus', meaning 'to speak evil'.
It combines 'male' (bad) and 'dicere' (to speak), which directly relates to speaking negatively.
In historical texts, it was often associated with curses or solemn oaths against someone.

The word 'maledict' originated from the Latin word 'maledictus', which means 'speaking evil'. In the English language, it has been used since the late 15th century to describe the act of cursing or wishing harm upon someone. Over the years, 'maledict' has been associated with dark magic and superstition, often used in literature and folklore to depict malevolent characters. Despite its negative connotation, the word continues to be used in contemporary language to express strong disapproval or condemnation.