vindictive

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. adjective disposed to seek revenge or intended for revenge; - Shakespeare; - M.R.Cohen
  2. adjective showing malicious ill will and a desire to hurt; motivated by spite

Etymology

From Latin vindicta (“vengeance”) + -ive. Contrast Latin vindicātīvus.

In classic literature

Synonyms

revengeful, vengeful

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