baleful etymology

Etymology

The word "baleful" is derived from the Old English word "balewe", which means "evil" or "harmful". It is related to the words "bale" (sorrow, misery) and "baneful" (causing harm or injury).

Meaning

Baleful means:

• causing harm or misfortune
• threatening or ominous
• fierce or menacing
• deadly or poisonous

Origin

The word "baleful" was first used in the 13th century. It is thought to have originated from the combination of the Old Norse word "bal" (evil, death) and the Old English suffix "-we".

Usage

Baleful is often used to describe:

• A person's gaze that is filled with malice or ill-intent
• A situation or circumstance that is dangerous or harmful
• A substance or agent that is toxic or poisonous
• A weapon or tool that is capable of causing serious injury

baleful relate terms

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• bale

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• institute

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• discipline

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