Villain

/ˈvɪlən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A character in a story, movie, or play who opposes the hero; a person guilty of wrongdoing or wicked behavior.

In the movie, the villain plotted to take over the world.

A wicked or malevolent person.

The media often portrays him as a villain for his controversial actions.

A character or figure who engages in bad behavior, often causing harm to others.

The classic villains in fairy tales are often portrayed as greedy and evil.

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

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.

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.

Bad guy

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

The baddie

He played the baddie perfectly in the blockbuster.