fiendish
|fiend/ish|
C1
/ˈfiːndɪʃ/
devilish cruelty
Etymology
Etymology Information
'fiendish' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'fēond', where 'fēond' meant 'enemy' or 'devil'.
Historical Evolution
'fēond' transformed into the Middle English word 'fend', and eventually became the modern English word 'fiendish'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'related to an enemy or devil', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'extremely cruel or unpleasant'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
extremely cruel or unpleasant; devilish.
The villain's fiendish plan was finally revealed.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 2
extremely difficult or complex.
The puzzle was fiendishly difficult to solve.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/31 08:50