malignity
|ma-lig-ni-ty|
/məˈlɪɡnɪti/
harmful or bad intent
Etymology
'malignity' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'malignitas', where 'malignus' meant 'bad-disposed' or 'tending to evil'.
'malignitas' passed into Old French as 'malignité' and then into Middle English as 'malignité' or 'malignity', eventually becoming the modern English word 'malignity'.
Initially, it referred broadly to 'bad disposition' or 'evil intent', and over time the word has retained that sense while also being used in medical contexts to denote 'malignant' or harmful biological character.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality or state of being malicious; spitefulness or ill will toward others.
His words were full of malignity and caused deep hurt.
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Noun 2
the harmful or deadly nature of a disease or growth; malignant character (often used in medical contexts as a synonym of 'malignancy').
The doctor noted the malignity of the tumor and recommended immediate treatment.
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Last updated: 2025/10/20 18:50