- evil
- e|vil1 [ `ivl ] adjective **1. ) an evil person does very bad or cruel things:a dangerous and evil dictatora ) used about someone's behavior:their evil machinationsan evil grinb ) connected with the Devil and forces that make bad things happen:evil spirits2. ) morally bad and causing great harm, especially to society in general:evil drug-pushersevil racist propaganda3. ) very unpleasant:an evil-smelling chemicalthe evil day/hour OFTEN HUMOROUSthe day/time when something unpleasant will happengive someone the evil eyeto look at someone in an unpleasant way, especially because you are angry with themevile|vil 2 [ `ivl ] noun **1. ) uncount a power that makes people do very bad and cruel things:the struggle between good and evila ) very bad or cruel behavior:Does everyone have the potential for evil?2. ) count something that is very bad:the view of crime as a social evilthe evils of somethingthe bad effects that something can have:She knows all about the evils of alcohol.=> LESSER1, NECESSARY1
Usage of the words and phrases in modern English. 2013.