Definition

The quality of being spiteful or showing a desire to hurt someone or something.

Example

Her despitefulness made it difficult for her to maintain friendships.

Conversation

I can't believe how much despitefulness there is in that movie's plot.

I know, right? It really makes you think about human nature.

Exactly! It seems like the characters just can't escape their own despitefulness.

For sure, it adds a whole new layer to the story.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Despitefulness → It is formed from "despite" (from Old French *despit*, meaning contempt or scorn) and "-fulness" (meaning the state of being full of). The word "despitefulness" refers to the state of being full of contempt or scorn.

Memory Tip

Think of feeling 'contempt' ('despite') and being 'full of' ('-fulness') that feeling — that's what despitefulness means.

Visually Confused Words