MEAN SPIRITED Meaning and
Definition
-
Mean-spirited is an adjective used to describe a person, behavior, or action that is characterized by a display of malice, ill will, or a lack of kindness and compassion. It refers to individuals who engage in behavior that intentionally and often deliberately causes harm, discomfort, or suffering to others. Such behavior may include mocking, belittling, demeaning, or verbally attacking others, often without justification or provocation.
Mean-spiritedness can manifest in various ways, such as engaging in bullying, gossiping, or engaging in acts of ridicule or teasing. These actions demonstrate a lack of empathy and a willingness to derive pleasure or satisfaction by causing harm or distress to others. Mean-spirited individuals may derive enjoyment from others' misfortunes, actively seeking opportunities to bring others down and undermine their confidence.
The term "mean-spirited" also extends to the nature of certain actions, policies, or decisions that are deliberately hurtful or unfair. In this context, it denotes actions that are motivated by a desire to harm others, even at the expense of justice or fairness.
Overall, the term "mean-spirited" encapsulates a negative and harmful quality in a person or their actions, suggesting a lack of empathy, kindness, and consideration for others' well-being.
Common Misspellings for MEAN SPIRITED
Etymology of MEAN SPIRITED
The word "mean" comes from the Old English "gemǣne", which means "common, general, or public". Over time, it developed a sense of "base, ignoble, or of low birth" in Middle English. It eventually took on the meaning of "having an unkind or cruel nature" in the mid-14th century.
On the other hand, the word "spirited" comes from the Latin "spiritus", which means "breath" or "spirit". It initially referred to "having a specified kind of character or disposition" in the late 16th century.
When combined, "mean spirited" became a phrase used to describe someone who acts in a malicious, unkind, or ungenerous manner. It implies a lack of kindness or compassion toward others.
Similar spelling words for MEAN SPIRITED
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
