malignant
|ma/lig/nant|
C1
/məˈlɪɡ.nənt/
harmful intent
Etymology
Etymology Information
'malignant' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'malignans,' where 'mal-' meant 'bad' and 'gnus' meant 'born.'
Historical Evolution
'malignans' transformed into the Old French word 'malignant,' and eventually became the modern English word 'malignant' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'born of bad nature,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'harmful or malevolent.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
having or showing a desire to cause harm to someone; very dangerous or harmful in influence or effect.
The tumor was found to be malignant.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/23 06:06