English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
adjective

maligned

Quiz me More like this

Maligned (adjective) means Spoken about unfairly or harshly; the target of unjust criticism. Example: “The much-maligned manager was actually right all along.”

adjective
1
Spoken about unfairly or harshly; the target of unjust criticism.
"The much-maligned manager was actually right all along."
"Fast food gets a maligned reputation, even though some options are quite healthy."

How to use maligned

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishGiven a bad reputation, often unfairly — usually seen as "much-maligned."

Common pairings
much-maligned unfairly maligned
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like maligned.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice

Word forms

Comparative
more maligned
Superlative
most maligned
Test yourself on “maligned” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The much-_____ manager was actually right all along.

Rhymes for maligned

See all rhymes for maligned →

Frequently asked questions

What does “maligned” mean?
The word “maligned” means spoken about unfairly or harshly; the target of unjust criticism. In plain terms, given a bad reputation, often unfairly — usually seen as "much-maligned.".
How do you use “maligned” in a sentence?
Here is “maligned” used in a sentence: “The much-maligned manager was actually right all along.”
What part of speech is “maligned”?
“Maligned” is an adjective.
What is the meaning of maligned?
"maligned" (adjective) means spoken about unfairly or harshly; the target of unjust criticism.