Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Malefic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⚡
Add to dictionary

malefic

[məˈlɛfɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

harmful nature

The term 'malefic' refers to something that is harmful or evil in nature. It is often used in contexts related to astrology, where malefic planets are believed to bring misfortune or negative outcomes. Additionally, it can describe individuals or actions that cause harm or have malevolent intentions. The term carries a strong connotation of danger and is typically associated with dark or sinister influences.

Synonyms

evil, harmful, malevolent, noxious, wicked.

Examples of usage

  • The malefic influence of the planet Mars can cause conflict.
  • Her malefic plans were aimed at sabotaging the competition.
  • The story features a malefic witch who curses the kingdom.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, malefic characters often embody chaos or villainy, like Sauron in 'The Lord of the Rings'.
  • Shakespeare used malefic forces in plays like 'Macbeth', where dark intentions lead to doom.
  • In fairy tales, witches and curses are often described as malefic, leading to classic good-versus-evil stories.

Astrology

  • In astrology, malefic planets like Mars and Saturn are thought to represent challenges and obstacles.
  • Astrologers view malefic influences in a natal chart as potential sources of strife or conflict.
  • The concept of malefic planets can lead to greater understanding of personal struggles and strengths.

Pop Culture

  • The term often appears in fantasy media, associating it with evil magic or creatures, such as in 'Dungeons & Dragons'.
  • Many movies, like 'Maleficent', draw on the concept of malefic beings transforming into more complex characters.
  • In graphic novels, heroes often confront malefic villains, creating a contrast between light and dark.

Psychology

  • In psychology, malefic traits can relate to malevolence, often studied in the context of personality disorders.
  • Understanding malefic behaviors can help in identifying harmful patterns in relationships or groups.
  • Researchers explore the impact of malefic influences in media, questioning how they shape societal norms and fears.

Origin of 'malefic'

Main points about word origin

  • Originates from the Latin word 'maleficus', which means 'doing harm'.
  • The prefix 'mal-' indicates badness, a form often found in words like 'malware' and 'malpractice'.
  • The suffix '-fic' comes from 'facere', meaning 'to make or do', so it essentially means 'making bad'.

The word 'malefic' has its origins in the Latin word 'maleficus', which combines 'male' meaning 'bad' and 'facere', meaning 'to do'. This composition reflects the word's intrinsic meaning of causing harm or evil. In historical texts, especially in the context of astrology, malefic planets were defined as those that produced adverse effects, contrasting with benefic planets associated with positive influences. The usage of 'malefic' has been present in English since the late 14th century, and it has maintained a consistent association with danger and evil over the centuries. Its application has expanded to various fields, including literature and modern psychology, often used to describe characters or situations that bear malevolent intent.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,896, 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.