'spitefully' originates from the word 'spiteful,' which is derived from the noun 'spite,' meaning 'a desire to hurt, annoy, or offend someone.'

'spite' evolved from the Old French word 'despit,' which came from the Latin 'despectus,' meaning 'scorn.'

Initially, it meant 'to hold in contempt,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'malicious intent.'