Invectives
/ɪnˈvɛk.tɪvz/noun
Harsh, abusive, or insulting words spoken or written against someone.
Did you know?The root behind *invective* is Latin *invectivus*, from *invectus* (“carried in, attacked”), ultimately tied to *vehere* (“to carry, convey”), the same ancient source behind words like *vehicle* and *convey*.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
invectivus
“abusive, attacking in speech”
Latin
Latin
invectus
“carried in; attacked; assailed”
Latin
Latin
invehere
“to carry in; to attack verbally”
Middle English
English
invectif
“abusive or railing speech”
Modern English
English
invective
“insulting or denunciatory language”