Definition of vicious

The root of the word "vicious" can be traced back to the Latin word "viciousus," which means "confused" or "perverted." In Middle English, the word took on the meaning of "defiant" or "hostile," likely due to its association with the Latin word "victus," meaning "spoiled" or "corrupted." The current usage of "vicious" to describe something or someone as cruel or violent originated during the 16th century, when it was commonly used to describe ferocious animals or wild beasts. By the 17th century, the term had been extended to describe people who exhibited similar behavior, particularly those who showed disobedience or hostility towards authority figures. Over time, the word's meaning has evolved to also refer to immoral or cruel actions or practices. Today, "vicious" is commonly used to describe a range of negative traits, from people who exhibit cruel or violent behavior to animals that are dangerous or aggressive. In summary, the origin of "vicious" stems from its Latin roots, but its meaning has been shaped over time by its association with wild animals, hostility towards authority, and immoral or cruel behavior.