Definition

A spoken curse or a wish for evil to happen to someone.

Example

The witch cast a malediction on the village, bringing misfortune to its people.

Conversation

Have you ever heard someone use a malediction in a movie?

Yeah, I think it usually adds a dramatic effect to the scene.

Right? It’s fascinating how a simple curse can change the mood.

Totally! It makes you wonder about the power of words.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Malediction → It is formed from "male-" (meaning bad or evil) and "dictio" (meaning saying or speaking). The word "malediction" refers to a curse or the act of speaking evil against someone.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bad' ('male-') 'speaking' ('dictio') — that's why malediction means a curse or speaking ill of someone.

Visually Confused Words