Vindictive

usgb/vɪnˈdɪktɪv/
adjective

Having a strong desire to harm someone who has done something bad to you.

After being fired, he became vindictive and tried to sabotage the company's projects.
Visual representation of "vindictive" - Having a strong desire to harm someone who has done something bad to you

Often appears as...

  • vindictive nature
  • vindictive act

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "vindictive"
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Negative Emotion

Vindictive indicates strong negative feelings toward another person.

Illustration for Negative Emotion
Her vindictive glare made it clear she hadn't forgiven him.
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Reaction to Harm

Use 'vindictive' when someone reacts with planned harm after being hurt first.

Illustration for Reaction to Harm
He harbored a vindictive resentment towards his rival.
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Preceding Conflict

Vindictive behavior usually follows some conflict or harm done by the other party.

Illustration for Preceding Conflict
Her vindictive actions were sparked by the unkind rumors spread about her.
Word comparison image

Compare with

avengemalevolentmaliciouspunitiveretaliatoryretributiverevengespitefulvengeful
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Visual representation of the word "Vindictive"

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