Definition

The state or quality of being harmful or evil, often used to describe a person's intentions or actions that are malevolent.

Example

The malignance in his words made everyone uncomfortable during the meeting.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed the malignance in some people's actions?

Yeah, it's surprising how some can be so negative for no reason.

It really makes you think about the impact of malignance on others.

Absolutely, kindness can go a long way in countering that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Malignance → It is formed from "mal-" (meaning bad or evil) and "-gnance" (from the Latin root "gnare", meaning to know or recognize). The word "malignance" refers to the quality of being evil or harmful, indicating a bad or malevolent nature.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mal-' meaning bad, and 'gnance' relating to knowledge — this helps you remember that malignance refers to a harmful or evil quality.

Visually Confused Words