mean-spirited
adjective
mean-spir·it·ed
ˈmēn-ˈspir-ə-təd 
ˌmēn-
: exhibiting or characterized by meanness of spirit
The critic's review of the book was just mean-spirited.
Examples of mean-spirited in a Sentence
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While most are supportive, a fair number are critical, even mean-spirited.
—
Barbara Vandenburgh, USA TODAY, 16 June 2023
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Barbara Vandenburgh, USA TODAY, 16 June 2023
Cite this Entry
“Mean-spirited.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mean-spirited. Accessed 5 Nov. 2025.
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