maltalent

/mælˈtælənt/

Etymology

From Middle English maltalent, from Anglo-Norman maltalent and Middle French maltalent, maltalant, from mal (“evil”) + talent (“disposition”).

Why this word is great

MALTALENT — [Noun] Ill will; malice, malevolence. From Middle English maltalent, from Anglo-Norman maltalent and Middle French maltalent, maltalant, from mal ("evil") + talent ("disposition"). Unlike "resentment" (which smolders from perceived injury) or "animosity" (which flares in response to conflict), maltalent is the cold, unprovoked shadow in a glance, the quiet relish of another’s stumble, the deliberate misplacement of a rival’s belongings. It is the unlit fuse of cruelty, waiting—some souls are simply wired for spite.

noun

Ill will; malice, malevolence.“So forth he vvent, / VVith heauy looke and lumpiſh pace, that plaine / In him bevvraid great grudge and maltalent; / His ſteed eke ſeemd t'apply his ſteps to his intent.”