malign

[məˈlaɪn]

malign Definition

• 1. to speak harmful untruths about someone or something
• 2. evil or harmful in nature or effect

Using malign: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "malign" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  He was accused of maligning his former colleague.

• Example

  The malign influence of drugs on society cannot be overstated.

• Example

  The article was a malign attack on her character.

• Example

  The company's malign practices were exposed by the media.

malign Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for malign

• defame
• slander
• vilify
• harmful
• malevolent

Antonyms for malign

• praise
• commend
• benevolent

Idioms Using malign

• malignant smile

  a smile that is insincere or malicious

  Example

  She gave him a malignant smile, knowing that she had just won the argument.

• malignant neglect

  a situation where someone in a position of authority fails to take action that would prevent harm or damage

  Example

  The government's policy of malignant neglect towards the environment has led to catastrophic consequences.

• malignant rumor

  a false and harmful rumor that is spread about someone or something

  Example

  The malignant rumor that he was involved in illegal activities ruined his reputation.

Phrases with malign

• malignant tumor

  a cancerous tumor that can spread to other parts of the body

  Example

  The doctors found a malignant tumor in her lung.

• malignant narcissism

  a personality disorder characterized by extreme self-centeredness, an exaggerated sense of entitlement, and a lack of empathy for others

  Example

  His behavior was consistent with malignant narcissism, as he showed no regard for the feelings of those around him.

• malignant hyperthermia

  a rare but life-threatening condition that can occur during general anesthesia, characterized by a rapid rise in body temperature and severe muscle contractions

  Example

  The patient had a history of malignant hyperthermia, so the anesthesiologist took extra precautions during the surgery.

Origins of malign

from Old French 'malin', meaning 'wicked'

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Summary: malign in Brief

The term 'malign' [məˈlaɪn] can be used as a verb or adjective. As a verb, it means to speak harmful untruths about someone or something. As an adjective, it means evil or harmful in nature or effect. Examples include 'He was accused of maligning his former colleague.' and 'The malign influence of drugs on society cannot be overstated.' Phrases like 'malignant tumor' and idioms like 'malignant neglect' further illustrate the negative connotations of the word.