pernicious
adjective
Having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way.
Etymology
From Latin perniciosus "destructive," from pernicies "destruction, death," from per- "completely" + nex "violent death."
Examples in Use
- 1.
"The pernicious effects of the rumor spread through the office."
- 2.
"Pernicious anemia is a serious blood disorder."
- 3.
"The pernicious influence of corruption weakened the institution."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Pernicious literally means "bringing death." Pernicious anemia was named when it was a fatal disease; B12 treatment made it survivable. The word suggests harm that's both serious and insidious.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 10 letters (P, E, R, N, I, C, I, O, U, S)
Scrabble Value: 14 points
Tip: The letter pattern in "PERNICIOUS" appears in many related words.
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