maleficent

UK: məˈlɛfɪsənt | US: məˈlɛfɪsənt

Definition

  1. adj. causing harm or destruction; evil or malevolent in nature

Structure
male <evil>fic <make>ent <adjective suffix>
Etymology

maleficent = male<evil> + fic<make> + ent<adjective suffix>

  • male (evil, from Latin malus)
  • fic (make, from Latin facere, meaning "to do" or "to make")
  • ent (adjective suffix, indicating a quality or state)

Etymology Origin:
The word maleficent originates from Latin maleficus ("evil-doing"), combining male (evil) and facere (to make). Over time, it evolved into English, retaining its core meaning of harm or malevolence. The suffix -ent solidifies its adjectival form, describing someone or something that actively produces evil effects.

Examples

  1. The maleficent witch cursed the village with eternal darkness.

  2. His maleficent actions left a trail of suffering.

  3. Legends speak of a maleficent spirit haunting the forest.

  4. The king feared the maleficent influence of his advisor.

  5. Her maleficent grin sent chills down their spines.