Malevolent refers to having or showing a desire to cause harm, evil, or ill will toward others. In everyday language and paranormal contexts, malevolent entities intentionally seek to harm or manipulate, often driven by malicious intent. In supernatural lore, they are frequently described as hostile forces that cause fear, destruction, or distress in the living world. These entities may be tied to hauntings, possessions, or curses, actively working against the well-being of individuals or communities.
The concept extends beyond the supernatural, appearing in human behavior and character. A person with malevolent intentions may engage in deceit, manipulation, or acts of cruelty for personal gain or to inflict suffering on others. Historically, the term has been used to describe not only harmful individuals but also forces or influences believed to have destructive or wicked effects.
Malevolent beings are often contrasted with benevolent ones, who seek to help and protect, highlighting the duality of good and evil that is a recurring theme in folklore, religion, and psychology.