Definition

In a way that is intended to cause harm or suffering to someone.

Example

He maliciously spread rumors about his colleague to damage her reputation.

Conversation

Did you see that comment someone made on your post?

Yeah, it felt really maliciously aimed at me.

I can't believe people can be so mean online.

I know, right? It's like they enjoy being hurtful for no reason.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Maliciously → It is formed from "malicious" (from Latin "malitiosus", meaning full of malice or ill will) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "maliciously" means in a manner that is full of malice or intended to cause harm.

Memory Tip

Think of someone acting in a way that is full of ill will ('malicious') — and the '-ly' just means how they are acting. So, when someone acts maliciously, they are behaving in a harmful way.

Visually Confused Words