diabolical
|di/a/bol/i/cal|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˌdaɪəˈbɑːlɪkəl/
🇬🇧
/ˌdaɪəˈbɒlɪkəl/
extremely evil
Etymology
Etymology Information
'diabolical' originates from Late Latin, specifically the word 'diabolicus,' where 'diabolus' meant 'devil.'
Historical Evolution
'diabolicus' transformed into the Old French word 'diabolique,' and eventually became the modern English word 'diabolical' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'pertaining to the devil,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'extremely evil or cruel.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
extremely evil or cruel; fiendish.
The villain's diabolical plan was to take over the world.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/31 09:01