Spitefully Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

😠

Add to dictionary

spitefully

[ˈspaɪt.fəl.i ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

used to describe an action or behavior

In a manner showing a strong feeling of resentment or anger.

Synonyms

maliciously, venomously, vindictively.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spitefully	Used when someone acts out of spite, with the intention to hurt or annoy someone else. Spiteful behavior often stems from feelings of resentment or bitterness. She spitefully spread rumors about her colleague after being passed over for the promotion. He laughed spitefully when he saw her trip and fall.
vindictively	Describes actions taken with the intention of seeking revenge or punishment. Vindictive behavior is characterized by a relentless desire to retaliate for a perceived wrong. He vindictively plotted ways to ruin the career of the man who had insulted him. She vindictively reported every minor mistake her co-worker made to their boss.
maliciously	Refers to actions done with ill intent, intending to cause harm, damage, or suffering. Malicious behavior is more severe than spiteful behavior and often involves a premeditated plan. The hacker maliciously deleted all the important files from the company's server. He was charged for maliciously damaging his neighbor's property.
venomously	Used to describe actions or words that are filled with intense bitterness and hostility. This term often implies a toxic level of malevolence. She spoke venomously, her words cutting deeper than any physical wound. He glared at his rival venomously, filled with pure hatred.

Examples of usage

She spoke spitefully of her former boss.
He looked at her spitefully, as if he wished her harm.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

used to describe an action or behavior

In a way that is intended to annoy or hurt someone.

Synonyms

maliciously, spiteful, vindictively.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spitefully	This word is used to describe an action done with a strong desire to harm or upset someone. It typically implies an act motivated by spite or hatred. She broke his favorite vase spitefully
maliciously	This word is used to indicate actions performed with the intention to cause harm or with ill will. It often carries a stronger and more deliberate negative connotation. He spread maliciously false rumors about her at work
vindictively	This word is used to describe actions taken with a desire for revenge. It suggests a strong intention to avenge perceived wrongs and often involves planning and deliberation. After being fired, he vindictively damaged company property
spiteful	This word describes a person or their actions as showing an intention to hurt or offend. It's usually used to characterize someone's overall demeanor or recurring behavior. Her spiteful comments made everyone uncomfortable

Examples of usage

She smiled spitefully, knowing she had won the argument.
He acted spitefully by spreading rumors about his coworker.

Translations

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

Origin of 'spitefully'

The word 'spitefully' originates from the Middle English word 'spiteful', which means 'full of spite or malice'. The word 'spite' itself comes from Old English 'spīt', meaning 'rancor, malice'. Over time, the adverb form 'spitefully' emerged to describe actions or behaviors done in a manner that shows resentment, anger, or intention to hurt or annoy.

See also: despite, spiteful, spitefulness.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,879 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
33876 stickleback
33877 reining
33878 vitiating
33879 spitefully
33880 dither
33881 veggie
33882 wintergreen
...