Spitefulness: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'spite' comes from the Latin 'spiritus', meaning 'breath' or 'spirit,' which later evolved to reflect a sense of malice.
• Interestingly, 'spitefulness' became popular in the English language in the 14th century, showing how long people have been feeling and acting out in this way.
• The suffix '-fulness' indicates the quality of having or being full of, so 'spitefulness' literally means to be full of spite.

Psychology

• Research suggests that spitefulness can be linked to feelings of insecurity and low self-esteem, where a person feels better by putting others down.
• Studies have shown that spiteful behavior can also be a way for individuals to regain control or influence in situations where they feel powerless.
• The phenomenon of 'passive-aggressive' behavior often includes elements of spitefulness, where indirect hostility can emerge instead of direct confrontation.

Literature

• Spitefulness is a common theme in classic literary works, such as Shakespeare's 'Hamlet,' where revenge and malice drive characters' actions.
• Modern novels often explore the psychological underpinnings of spitefulness, illustrating how it can lead to tragic outcomes in relationships.
• In children's literature, spite might manifest as characters seeking revenge over misunderstandings, teaching lessons on kindness and empathy.

Pop Culture

• Movies and TV shows often depict spiteful characters, like antagonists who act out of jealousy or revenge, creating drama and tension in the story.
• Songs have been written about spitefulness, showcasing how pain can inspire creative expression in response to betrayal.
• Social media sometimes amplifies spiteful behavior, where people may publicly air grievances or engage in online feuds.

Philosophy

• Philosophical discussions around spitefulness often involve the nature of human emotions and moral responsibility for one’s actions.
• Some thinkers argue that spitefulness can indicate a lack of empathy, raising questions about human connections and the capacity for forgiveness.
• Debates in ethics consider whether feelings of spite can ever be justified, especially when stemming from perceived injustices.

Ranking #39,421, 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.

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• 39418 tyrannizing
• 39419 rakishly
• 39420 coarsen
• 39421 spitefulness
• 39422 limning
• 39423 distastefully
• 39424 infrasonic
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