Definition

In a way that shows evil or wicked behavior, like a villain.

Example

The character in the movie acted villainously, plotting against the hero.

Conversation

Did you see that movie with the villainously clever plot twist?

Yeah, it was so unexpected!

I love how they made the villain so complex and interesting.

Absolutely, it made the story much more engaging.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Villainously → It is formed from "villain" (from Old French *vilain*, meaning a farmhand or peasant, later evolving to mean a wicked person) and the suffix "-ously" (meaning in a manner of). The word "villainously" means in a wicked or immoral manner, reflecting the negative qualities associated with a villain.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'villain' as someone who acts in a 'wicked manner' ('-ously') — that's why 'villainously' describes actions that are morally wrong.

Visually Confused Words