Origin: 1400–50; late Middle English; see spite, -ful Related formsspite·ful·ly, adverb
spite·ful·ness, noun
un·spite·ful, adjective
un·spite·ful·ly, adverb
Synonyms
vengeful, mean, cruel, rancorous. Spiteful, revengeful, vindictive refer to a desire to inflict a wrong or injury on someone, usually in return for one received. Spiteful implies a mean or malicious desire for (often petty) revenge: a spiteful attitude toward a former friend. Revengeful implies a deep, powerful, and continued intent to repay a wrong: a fierce and revengeful spirit. Vindictive does not imply action necessarily, but stresses the unforgiving nature of the avenger: a vindictive look.
Antonyms
benevolent.