vengeful

adjective

venge·​ful ˈvenj-fəl How to pronounce vengeful (audio)
: revengeful: such as
a
: seeking to avenge
b
: serving to gain vengeance
vengefully adverb
vengefulness noun

Examples of vengeful in a Sentence

The robbery was committed by a vengeful former employee. The fire was a vengeful act of destruction.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Over two films, Reed faced off against Victor, the pompous and vengeful CEO of Von Doom Industries. Derek Lawrence, Vulture, 30 July 2025 Richard’s vengeful ambition and false promises litter the outdoor stage in Sanborn County Park, ultimately reminding everyone that the evils pursued by those in power ultimately come apart at the seams, only the remnants of thick blood left behind. David John Chávez, Mercury News, 30 July 2025 Shame on him for ignoring the ramifications of Trump’s selfish, vengeful tactics. Dp Opinion, Denver Post, 28 July 2025 The group declines his deal, which further angers Galactus, sending him on a vengeful mission to both destroy Earth and take Sue’s child. Keith Langston, People.com, 25 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for vengeful

Word History

Etymology

venge + -ful entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vengeful was circa 1586

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Cite this Entry

“Vengeful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vengeful. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

vengeful

adjective
venge·​ful ˈvenj-fəl How to pronounce vengeful (audio)
: wanting revenge
vengefully adverb
vengefulness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on vengeful

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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