Malignant
/məˈlɪɡ.nənt/noun
Having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way.
Did you know?The term 'malignant' is often used in medicine to describe cancers, which were once thought to be caused by malevolent spirits or forces in ancient beliefs.
Etymological Timeline
Late Latin
Latin
malignantem
“evil or harmful”
14th Century
Old French
malignant
“causing harm or evil”
15th Century
Middle English
malignant
“having a malignant nature, harmful”
Modern English
English
malignant
“characterized by a harmful influence, often used medically”
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