# malicious

/məˈɫɪʃəs/ (US) · /mɐlˈɪʃəs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/malicious
Updated: 2026-05-03

## Definition

intending to hurt or upset someone on purpose. You use this to describe people or actions that are mean and unkind.

For teachers: characterised by a desire to cause harm, pain, or distress to another person. Often describes intent or specific actions rather than a permanent personality trait.

## Examples

- He sent a malicious email to his boss.
- The company's website was taken down by a malicious software attack that locked all their files.
- While the initial comment seemed like a harmless joke, the subsequent spread of malicious rumors suggested a coordinated effort to damage her professional reputation.

## Usage notes

- Typically precedes the noun it modifies; frequently collocates with 'intent', 'gossip', or 'software'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.