Meaning & Definition of word "Spite"

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    Spite

    /spaɪt/

    noun:

    • 1. A desire to hurt, annoy, or offend someone.
      • Example: She did it out of spite, knowing it would upset him.
    • 2. Malicious or petty ill will.
      • Example: His spite towards her was evident in the way he spoke.

    verb:

    • 1. To intentionally hurt or annoy someone.
      • Example: He spite her by telling everyone about her mistake.

    Etymology

    Middle English 'spite', from the Old French 'espite' which means 'malice'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    spiteful act:

    An action done with the intention to hurt someone.

    in spite of:

    Without being affected by the particular factor.

    spite your face to save your soul:

    Acting against one's best interest out of spite.

    Related Words

    spitefulness:

    The quality of being spiteful.

    spiteful:

    Showing or caused by spite.

    spitefully:

    In a spiteful manner.

    Slang Meanings of spite

    Meaning: To do something just to annoy someone.

    Example Sentence: He posted that just to spite his ex.

    Meaning: Taking a risk or making a move out of spite.

    Example Sentence: She signed up for the competition just to spite her critics.