Spiteful: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe actions or words that are meant to intentionally harm or upset someone, often out of petty resentment.

• Her spiteful comments during the meeting were uncalled for.
• He made a spiteful remark about her new haircut.

Describes actions, words, or behavior meant to cause harm or pain deliberately, often with a sense of enjoyment derived from it. It can describe actions that are both subtle and overt.

• She spread malicious rumors about her coworkers.
• His malicious intent was clear when he sabotaged the project.

Refers to having a desire to cause harm or evil to others, often suggesting a deeper or more serious intent.

• The villain's malevolent plan was to destroy the entire city.
• There was a malevolent glint in his eyes.

Indicates a strong desire for revenge, often resulting in actions that are hurtful or cruel, driven by a wish to punish someone.

• After the argument, she became vindictive and tried to get him fired.
• His vindictive nature made him a dangerous enemy.

This word is used when someone intentionally wants to cause pain or discomfort to others, often out of bitterness or ill-will.

• She made a spiteful comment about his appearance
• His spiteful behavior alienated his friends

This term is appropriate when describing actions or words that cause emotional pain or distress, but without necessarily implying a deliberate intent to harm.

• Her hurtful words made him cry
• The criticism was particularly hurtful because it came from someone she trusted

Use this word when describing actions meant to cause harm, driven by malice. It often implies a deeper, more sinister intent than 'spiteful'.

• The hacker's malicious actions caused a company-wide shutdown
• Spreading malicious rumors can destroy someone's reputation

This word describes a strong desire for revenge. Someone who is vindictive tends to act harshly or unfairly out of a desire to retaliate.

• After the breakup, he became vindictive and tried to ruin her career
• Her vindictive nature made her hold grudges for years