MALISIOUS Meaning and
Definition
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Malicious is an adjective used to describe an individual, action, or intent that possesses an intent to harm or cause harm to someone or something. This harmful behavior typically manifests in deliberate acts or words which are done with a motive of causing pain, distress, or injury. The term often implies a sense of malevolence and ill-will towards the target, suggesting intentional wrongdoing or a complete lack of consideration for the consequences of one's actions.
A person exhibiting malicious behavior displays a desire to cause harm or trouble, often using deceit, manipulation, or sabotage as means to achieve their harmful objectives. They may engage in spreading false information, rumors, or engaging in acts of revenge or cruelty, all with the purpose of causing distress or damage. Likewise, a computer program or code may be referred to as malicious when it is designed specifically to disrupt, steal information, or cause damage to computer systems.
The presence of malicious intent suggests a deliberate departure from moral or ethical standards, highlighting the harmful motivation driving the actions. However, it is crucial to distinguish between malicious acts and unintentional harm, as the former carries a more intentional and malevolent quality. Consequently, labeling an individual or action as malicious implies a higher degree of moral culpability or ill-intent.
Common Misspellings for MALISIOUS
Etymology of MALISIOUS
The word "malicious" originated from the Latin word "malitia", which means "evil nature" or "wrongdoing". This Latin term is derived from the adjective "malus", meaning "bad" or "evil". Over time, the Latin word evolved into the Old French term "malicios", which eventually became "malicious" in English.
Similar spelling words for MALISIOUS
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