Definition of malevolence

competent Definition: (adjective) having the skill and knowledge needed for a particular task; capable Petersons.com

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< Malevich, Kasimir

malevolent >

ma·lev·o·lence    (m-lv-lns) KEY  

NOUN:

1. The quality or state of being malevolent.
2. Malicious behavior.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Old French malivolence, from Latin malevolentia, from malevolns , malevolent-, malevolent : male, badly; see mel- ³ in Indo-European roots + volns, present participle of velle, to want; see wel- ¹ in Indo-European roots

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