Definition

Relating to or characteristic of a villain; often associated with wickedness or evil actions.

Example

The villainous character in the movie plotted to take over the world.

Conversation

Did you see that movie with the villainous character?

Yeah, he was really over the top!

I love when a character is so villainous that you can’t help but be entertained.

Absolutely! It makes the story so much more exciting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Villainous → It is formed from "villain" (from Old French *vilain*, meaning a farmhand or peasant) and the suffix "-ous" (meaning full of or characterized by). The word "villainous" describes someone characterized by the qualities of a villain, often implying wickedness or evil behavior.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'villain' as someone who is 'full of' ('-ous') bad qualities, which helps you remember that 'villainous' means having the characteristics of a villain.

Visually Confused Words