What does maleficence mean?
Maleficence refers to the state or quality of being malevolent, characterized by a desire to do harm or evil. It can be used to describe intentional acts of cruelty or wickedness, but also implies a more general state of being malevolent. The word is often used in formal or literary contexts, and is commonly associated with negative connotations. In contrast to benevolence, maleficence implies a lack of kindness or goodness. The term is derived from the Latin words 'malus' (bad) and 'facere' (to do), and is often used to describe the actions of individuals or organizations that cause harm or suffering. Maleficence is a useful word for describing complex or nuanced forms of evil, and is often used in academic or philosophical contexts to explore the nature of malevolence.
nounThe state or quality of being malevolent; the act of doing harm or evil.
- The state or quality of being malevolent; the act of doing harm or evil.
"The maleficence of the dictator was evident in the suffering of his people."
"The maleficence of the dictator was evident in the suffering of his people."
"The company's maleficence towards the environment was exposed in the media."
The plural form is used to describe multiple instances of maleficence, or to emphasize the extent of the harm or evil being described.
"The maleficences of the regime were exposed in the media."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of maleficence
The word maleficence is derived from the Latin words 'maleficus' (doing evil) and 'malus' (bad). It entered the English language in the 15th century, and has since been used to describe a range of negative behaviors and attitudes. The term is closely related to other words such as 'malevolence' and 'malice', and is often used in formal or literary contexts to explore the nature of evil.
How maleficence is actually used
Maleficence is often used to describe intentional harm or evil, but it can also imply a more general state of being malevolent. It is often used in formal or literary contexts.