malice
/ˈmælɪs/noun
The wish to hurt someone or see them suffer, or pleasure taken in their misfortune.
Example sentence
- “Her teasing was playful, with no malice behind it.”
In law, 'with malice aforethought' means the harm was planned in advance.
Related words
malignantCausing harm or intending evil; dangerous and destructive.malevolentWanting to hurt others or wishing them harm.mallA large indoor building containing many shops.malaiseA vague sense of physical discomfort or tiredness, often felt when an illness is beginning.malleableCapable of being beaten or pressed into thin sheets or new shapes, as with a hammer or rollers.majesticImpressively grand or dignified, like royalty.