Vindictive: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who seeks revenge and holds grudges for a long time. This word carries a negative connotation.

• Her vindictive nature led her to plot against her former friends

Describes a person or actions that are full of a desire for vengeance or retribution. Often used to emphasize a strong feeling of wanting revenge.

• He carried a vengeful heart after the incident

Relates to actions that are carried out to purposely harm, annoy, or upset someone. Often used for small, petty acts of malice.

• She made several spiteful comments just to hurt his feelings

Describes a strong desire to get back at someone for a perceived wrong. Similar to 'vindictive' but focuses more on the desire for payback.

• His revengeful thoughts consumed him after the betrayal

Describes actions or intentions that are meant to cause harm or pain to others. This word also has a negative connotation.

• The malicious rumors spread quickly, damaging his reputation

Used to describe actions taken in response to a perceived wrong or injury. Often used in legal, political, or conflict situations.

• The company's retaliatory measures against the whistleblower were widely criticized

When someone has a very strong desire to hurt someone else as payback. It's often used to describe a personality trait where a person is habitually focused on revenge.

• She was vindictive after the breakup and spread rumors about him.
• His vindictive nature made it difficult for others to trust him.

Describes actions or behavior intended to harm someone physically or emotionally. It implies a mean-spirited intent behind the actions.

• The malicious comments he posted online were meant to hurt her reputation.
• She had a malicious smile as she sabotaged her colleague's project.

Describes actions driven by petty malice or a desire to deliberately annoy or harm someone. It often suggests small, mean-spirited actions.

• Her spiteful remarks were designed to hurt his feelings.
• He poured salt into her coffee out of spiteful jealousy.

Used in the context of justice or punishment where an action is taken to avenge a wrongdoing. It is more formal and often used in legal or philosophical discussions.

• The retributive measures taken by the court were seen as too harsh.
• He sought retributive justice for the crimes committed against his family.

Describes a strong desire for revenge. Excitement or eagerness to get back at someone is implied.

• His revengeful thoughts kept him awake at night, plotting ways to retaliate.
• She was revengeful after losing her job and wanted to get back at her former employer.

Emphasizes a deep-seated need for retaliation. It can describe both feelings and actions geared towards avenging a wrong, often portrayed as consuming.

• She had a vengeful look in her eyes as she confronted her enemy.
• His vengeful plan unfolded over many years.