Definition

The state of wanting to harm someone in return for a wrong done to you.

Example

Her vengefulness made it hard for her to forgive those who had hurt her.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how vengefulness can affect someone’s life?

Yeah, it can really consume a person if they're not careful.

It's interesting how holding onto that feeling can lead to more negativity.

Exactly! Letting go is so much healthier for everyone involved.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Vengefulness → It is formed from "venge" (from Old French *venger*, meaning to take revenge) and "-fulness" (meaning the state of being full of). The word "vengefulness" means the state of being full of a desire for revenge.

Memory Tip

Think of the desire to 'take revenge' ('venge') and being 'full of' that desire ('-fulness'). This helps you remember that vengefulness refers to the state of wanting to get back at someone.

Visually Confused Words