C2adjectivecrimemedia
US/məˈlɪʃ.əs/
UK/məˈlɪʃ.əs/
intended to harm or upset someone on purpose
In context
The actor sued the website for spreading malicious rumors about his family.
Police are treating the fire at the newspaper office as malicious.
Never open attachments from strangers, as they may contain malicious software.
Words that go with malicious
adjective + noun
- malicious rumorsShe was the victim of malicious rumors at work.
- malicious softwareThe bank's computers were infected with malicious software.
- malicious intentThe court found no evidence of malicious intent.
- malicious damageTwo teenagers were charged with malicious damage to cars.
- malicious gossipThe village was full of malicious gossip about the new teacher.