Ill-Natured

Pronunciation: /ɪlˈneɪtʃərd/

Definitions of ill-natured

adjective showing a lack of kindness or compassion; mean-spirited

Example Sentences

A1 The ill-natured cat hissed at anyone who came near.

A2 She avoided the ill-natured neighbor who always had something negative to say.

B1 The ill-natured comments from the boss made the employees feel demotivated.

B2 Despite his ill-natured reputation, he was surprisingly kind to those in need.

C1 Her ill-natured behavior towards her colleagues eventually led to her dismissal.

C2 The ill-natured politician's remarks caused a stir in the media.

Examples of ill-natured in a Sentence

formal The ill-natured remarks made by the politician sparked controversy among the public.

informal I try to avoid hanging out with ill-natured people because they bring negative energy.

slang I can't stand being around that ill-natured dude, he's always so negative.

figurative Her ill-natured attitude was like a dark cloud hanging over the family gathering.

Grammatical Forms of ill-natured

• past tense: ill-natured
• plural: ill-natured
• comparative: more ill-natured
• superlative: most ill-natured
• present tense: is ill-natured
• future tense: will be ill-natured
• perfect tense: has been ill-natured
• continuous tense: is being ill-natured
• singular: ill-natured
• positive degree: ill-natured
• infinitive: to be ill-natured
• gerund: being ill-natured
• participle: ill-natured

Origin and Evolution of ill-natured

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Middle English

Story behind the word: The word 'ill-natured' originated from Middle English, derived from the combination of 'ill' meaning bad or evil, and 'natured' meaning disposition or temperament.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the term 'ill-natured' has retained its original meaning of having a bad or unpleasant disposition, but has also come to be used more broadly to describe someone who is unkind, malicious, or spiteful.