Pernicious

/pərˈnɪʃəs/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way.

The pernicious weed spread throughout the garden and choked out the flowers.

Causing insidious harm or ruin; ruinous.

The pernicious influence of misinformation can undermine public trust in institutions.

Evil; wicked.

The pernicious plot of the villain was carefully crafted to deceive the heroes.

Late Latin perniciosus, from pernicies (destruction, ruin)

pernicious influence

a harmful effect that is subtle and often unnoticed

pernicious effects

negative consequences that develop gradually and insidiously

venomous

capable of inflicting harm or causing injury, especially through poison

insidious

proceeding in a gradual, subtle way but with harmful effects

dangerous vibe

That guy has a pernicious vibe; I wouldn’t trust him.

toxic behavior

Her pernicious behavior is driving everyone away.