Meaning & Definition of word "Villain"

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    Villain

    /ˈvɪlən/

    noun:

    • 1. A character in a story, movie, or play who opposes the hero; a person guilty of wrongdoing or wicked behavior.
      • Example: In the movie, the villain plotted to take over the world.
    • 2. A wicked or malevolent person.
      • Example: The media often portrays him as a villain for his controversial actions.
    • 3. A character or figure who engages in bad behavior, often causing harm to others.
      • Example: The classic villains in fairy tales are often portrayed as greedy and evil.

    Etymology

    From Middle English 'villain', from Old French 'vilain', from Latin 'villanus' (farmhand, rustic), from 'villa' (farm or country house).

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    villainous intent:

    malicious purpose or goal.

    play the villain:

    to act in a mischievous or malevolent manner.

    casting a villain:

    selecting someone for a role of an antagonist.

    Related Words

    antihero:

    A central character in a story who lacks conventional heroic attributes.

    wicked:

    Morally bad or evil.

    malefactor:

    A person who violates the law or commits a crime.

    Slang Meanings of villain

    Meaning: Bad guy

    Example Sentence: In this game, you're the villain, the bad guy everyone loves to hate.

    Meaning: The baddie

    Example Sentence: He played the baddie perfectly in the blockbuster.