spite
An act done in spite is usually something we don't appreciate or approve of.
When we use the word "spite", it often means that someone did something on purpose to cause trouble or annoyance, especially to someone they don't like. This can be a deliberate action, like breaking something or saying mean things, just to get back at someone. Imagine two friends who used to hang out together but had a big argument and now one of them starts spreading rumors about the other - that's an example of doing something in spite.
How common is "spite"?
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.
noun
Ill will or hatred toward another, accompanied with the desire to unjustifiably irritate, annoy, or thwart; a want to disturb or put out another; mild malice
Example: He was so filled with spite for his ex-wife, his brother was afraid of what he might do.
Real examples of "spite" in context
