diabolic
UK: ˌdaɪəˈbɒlɪk | US: ˌdaɪəˈbɑːlɪk
adj. relating to or characteristic of the devil; devilish or evil
adj. extremely cruel or wicked
diabolic = dia<across/through> + bol<throw> + ic<adjective suffix>
- dia (Greek: "across, through") → implies opposition or antagonism.
- bol (Greek: "to throw") → suggests force or projection, often metaphorically linked to harm.
- ic (adjective-forming suffix) → denotes "pertaining to."
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Greek diabolikos ("slanderous, devilish"), via Late Latin diabolicus. The root diabolos ("devil") combines dia- ("across") + ballein ("to throw"), originally meaning "to slander" (literally "to throw accusations across"). Over time, it evolved to embody extreme malice or evil, reflecting the Christian concept of the devil as the ultimate adversary.
The villain's diabolic plan aimed to destroy the city.
She gave him a diabolic smile before revealing her trick.
The cult was accused of diabolic rituals.
His diabolic laughter sent chills down their spines.
The dictator's diabolic regime oppressed millions.