villainous
UK: ˈvɪlənəs | US: ˈvɪlənəs
adj. wicked, evil, or morally reprehensible in character or behavior
adj. befitting or characteristic of a villain
The word "villainous" derives from the Old French "villain" (originally meaning a peasant or farmhand), which later evolved to signify a person of low morals or criminal intent. The suffix "-ous" (from Latin "-osus") transforms the noun into an adjective, emphasizing the traits associated with a villain. Over time, "villain" shifted from a social class term to a moral descriptor, and "villainous" crystallized this negative connotation.
The villainous king oppressed his people with cruel laws.
Her villainous scheme to steal the inheritance was uncovered.
The actor played the villainous role with chilling realism.
His villainous laughter echoed through the dark corridor.
The novel's villainous antagonist had no redeeming qualities.