Meaning of the word vicious in English

What does vicious mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

vicious

US /ˈvɪʃ.əs/

UK /ˈvɪʃ.əs/

deliberately cruel or violent

Example:

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The dog gave him a vicious bite.

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He launched a vicious attack on his opponent.

Synonym:

brutal savage fierce cruel malicious

denoting a problem or situation that is very bad or severe

Example:

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The company is caught in a vicious cycle of debt.

•

The economy is facing a vicious downturn.

Synonym:

severe harsh fierce intense extreme

Related Word:

vicious circle