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Translate files Vicious
/ˈvɪʃ.əs/
Meaning & Definition
adjective
deliberately cruel or violent.
The vicious dog attacked the mailman without warning.
having a reputation for evil or harmful behavior.
He was a vicious criminal who had committed numerous felonies.
extremely severe or harmful.
The vicious storm caused widespread destruction across the coast.
characterized by malice or spite.
She spread vicious rumors about her former friend out of jealousy.
marked by an aggressive or violent temperament.
The vicious competitor did not hesitate to sabotage his rivals.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old French 'vicieux', from Latin 'viciosus', from 'vitium' meaning 'defect or fault'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
vicious cycle:
A repeating sequence of events that perpetuates itself.
vicious rumors:
Harmful or false statements spread with malicious intent.
vicious attack:
A brutal and ferocious assault.
Related Words
Slang Meanings
Feeling intensely angry or infuriated.
That was a vicious burn he laid on you!
Extremely cool or impressive.
That skateboard trick was vicious!