maleficent
Maleficent (adj) means causing harm, especially through evil intent. Example: “The story centers on a maleficent sorceress who curses the kingdom.”
How to use maleficent
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA formal, almost literary word meaning harmful or evil-doing.
Rare in everyday speech; mostly found in literature or fantasy writing.
Word forms
more maleficent comparative, most maleficent superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The story centers on a _____ sorceress who curses the kingdom.
Etymology
From Latin male ("badly") plus a form of facere ("to do"), so literally "doing bad."
Rhymes for maleficent
See all rhymes for maleficent →Frequently asked questions
What does “maleficent” mean?
The word “maleficent” means causing harm, especially through evil intent. In plain terms, a formal, almost literary word meaning harmful or evil-doing.
How do you pronounce “maleficent”?
“Maleficent” is pronounced muh-LEHF-ih-suhnt (/məˈlɛf.ɪ.sənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “maleficent” in a sentence?
Here is “maleficent” used in a sentence: “The story centers on a maleficent sorceress who curses the kingdom.”
What part of speech is “maleficent”?
“Maleficent” is an adjective.
Where does the word “maleficent” come from?
The word “maleficent” comes from Latin. From Latin male ("badly") plus a form of facere ("to do"), so literally "doing bad.".