malevolent

/məˈlɛvələnt/adjective

Wanting to hurt others or wishing them harm.

Example sentence

“The villain in the story gives the hero a malevolent glare.”

Literary in tone. Pairs with 'benevolent' as its exact opposite; both come from Latin words for wishing.

Related words

maliceThe wish to hurt someone or see them suffer, or pleasure taken in their misfortune.malaiseA vague sense of physical discomfort or tiredness, often felt when an illness is beginning.malignantCausing harm or intending evil; dangerous and destructive.majesticImpressively grand or dignified, like royalty.mallA large indoor building containing many shops.maintainTo stand behind someone and give them support or help in what they are doing.