adj
vindictive
vihn-DIHK-tihv
Vindictive (adj) means wanting revenge; inclined to punish or hurt someone who has wronged you. Example: “Her ex turned vindictive after the breakup, spreading rumours about her at work.”
adj
1
Wanting revenge; inclined to punish or hurt someone who has wronged you.
"Her ex turned vindictive after the breakup, spreading rumours about her at work."
"The manager's vindictive streak made staff afraid to raise complaints."
How to use vindictive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishWanting to get back at someone — spiteful and out for revenge.
Common pairings
a vindictive person
vindictive behaviour
feel vindictive
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more vindictive
- Superlative
- most vindictive
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Her ex turned _____ after the breakup, spreading rumours about her at work.
Etymology
From Latin vindicta, "vengeance," plus the adjective ending -ive.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for vindictive
See all rhymes for vindictive →Frequently asked questions
What does “vindictive” mean?
The word “vindictive” means wanting revenge; inclined to punish or hurt someone who has wronged you. In plain terms, wanting to get back at someone — spiteful and out for revenge.
How do you pronounce “vindictive”?
“Vindictive” is pronounced vihn-DIHK-tihv (/vɪnˈdɪk.tɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “vindictive” in a sentence?
Here is “vindictive” used in a sentence: “Her ex turned vindictive after the breakup, spreading rumours about her at work.”
What part of speech is “vindictive”?
“Vindictive” is an adjective.
Where does the word “vindictive” come from?
The word “vindictive” comes from Latin. From Latin vindicta, "vengeance," plus the adjective ending -ive.
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