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spiteful

adjective

/ˈspaɪt fəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of spiteful

Characterized by a deliberate desire to cause harm, distress, or annoyance to others.
"The spiteful neighbor purposely played loud music late at night to annoy the residents."

Detailed meaning of spiteful

When someone is spiteful, they engage in actions or make remarks with the intention of hurting or retaliating against someone, often motivated by feelings of resentment, jealousy, or anger. Spiteful individuals may take pleasure in seeing others suffer or may derive satisfaction from inflicting pain. Their actions are fueled by a desire to seek revenge or to assert dominance over others. Spiteful behavior can manifest in various forms, such as spreading rumors, making hurtful remarks, undermining others' achievements, or intentionally sabotaging someone's efforts. It is often driven by a negative mindset and a lack of empathy for the well-being and feelings of others. Ultimately, being spiteful tends to create a toxic environment and can damage relationships and trust.

Example sentences containing spiteful

1. She made spiteful comments about her colleague's work, trying to undermine their reputation.
2. The spiteful ex-partner spread false rumors about their former significant other.
3. Despite their accomplishments, the spiteful individual constantly belittled their peers.
4. He acted in a spiteful manner by intentionally damaging his friend's belongings.
5. The spiteful student secretly erased the notes of their classmate just before the exam.
6. Instead of offering congratulations, she gave a spiteful smirk when her rival won the award.

History and etymology of spiteful

The adjective 'spiteful' is derived from the noun 'spite,' which has its origins in the Old English word 'spītan,' meaning 'to taunt' or 'to scorn.' As 'spite' evolved in meaning to encompass ill will and malicious intent, 'spiteful' emerged as a word to describe a person or action characterized by a deliberate desire to cause harm, distress, or annoyance to others. When someone is described as 'spiteful,' it suggests a disposition to engage in hurtful or vindictive behavior, often driven by negative emotions like resentment or jealousy. This adjective is a succinct way to convey the malevolent intentions behind actions meant to inconvenience or harm others intentionally.

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Further usage examples of spiteful

1. The spiteful employee purposely withheld important information from their team members.
2. The spiteful ex-friend took pleasure in revealing embarrassing secrets to others.
3. The spiteful sibling intentionally hid their brother's favorite toy to upset him.
4. She sent spiteful text messages to her former best friend, expressing her anger.
5. The spiteful boss gave preferential treatment to certain employees, making others feel unimportant.
6. He wrote a spiteful review of the restaurant online to harm their reputation.
7. The spiteful classmate spread rumors about their peer's personal life, causing distress.
8. Despite their achievements, the spiteful coach constantly criticized their players.
9. The spiteful ex-roommate intentionally broke their former roommate's belongings out of spite.
10. The spiteful student deliberately misled their classmates during a group project.
11. She made spiteful remarks about her neighbor's appearance to hurt their feelings.
12. The spiteful supervisor denied a deserving employee a promotion simply out of spite.
13. Instead of offering support, the spiteful family member criticized every decision they made.
14. Despite their past disagreements, she couldn't help but feel his spiteful glare.
15. His spiteful comment cut deep, leaving an emotional scar that lingered.
16. In a spiteful act, he spread false rumors to tarnish her reputation.
17. Her spiteful laughter echoed through the room, causing discomfort.
18. The spiteful email he sent was filled with hurtful accusations.
19. Even in success, his spiteful nature couldn't hide its jealousy.
20. She wore a spiteful grin, relishing in the chaos she had caused.
21. His spiteful criticism only fueled her determination to succeed.
22. The spiteful tone in his voice was unmistakable during their argument.
23. Despite their friendship, his spiteful actions spoke louder than words.
24. Her spiteful intentions were clear as she sabotaged his plans.