Synonyms of spiteful

spiteful

adjective

ˈspīt-fəl 

as in malicious

having or showing a desire to cause someone pain or suffering for the sheer enjoyment of it

the gossip would utter the most vicious things with a spiteful smile

Synonyms & Similar Words

• malicious
• cruel
• vicious
• hateful
• nasty
• bad
• malevolent
• despiteful
• malignant
• bitchy
• virulent
• bitter
• venomous
• malign
• jealous
• catty
• poisonous
• harsh
• mean
• vindictive
• obnoxious
• evil
• resentful
• unkind
• hostile
• vitriolic
• envious
• devious
• contemptuous
• acrimonious
• snide
• scornful
• derogatory
• rancorous
• snotty
• disdainful
• disparaging
• snakelike
• unloving
• mean-spirited
• unkindly
• scurvy
• jaundiced
• opprobrious
• caustic
• baneful
• deprecating
• baleful
• scoundrelly
• inimical
• scathing
• acrid

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• benign
• benevolent
• loving
• sympathetic
• good
• kind
• warm
• compassionate
• friendly
• pleasant
• amiable
• kindly
• gracious
• agreeable
• sweet
• nice
• cordial
• affable
• affectionate
• genial
• benignant
• amorous
• kindhearted
• unmalicious
• good-hearted
• warmhearted
• tender
• noble
• humane
• altruistic
• magnanimous
• tenderhearted
• philanthropic
• humanitarian
• high-minded

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of spiteful

This is an essential part of our checks and balances system to prevent a corrupt president from dragging our nation into costly, dangerous, or spiteful wars. — Jeff Horseman, Oc Register, 5 May 2026

However nasty and spiteful things get between the Butleys and the del Valles, there’s always the sense that a détente may still be possible. — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 28 Apr. 2026

But again and again throughout Thursday's hearing, the fraying of bonds between Kennedy and his former party was on full display as spiteful comments were passed back and forth. — CBS News, 16 Apr. 2026

But again and again throughout Thursday’s hearing, the fraying of bonds between Kennedy and his former party was on full display as spiteful comments were passed back and forth. — Ali Swenson, Los Angeles Times, 16 Apr. 2026