Meaning & Definition of word "Spite"

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.