bale·ful
(b l f l)
adj.
2. Harmful or malignant in intent or
effect.
bale
ful·ly adv.
bale
ful·ness n.
Usage Note: Baleful and baneful
overlap in meaning, but baleful usually applies to something that is
menacing or foreshadows evil: a baleful look. Baneful most often
describes that which is actually harmful or destructive: baneful effects of
their foreign policy.
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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language,
Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009.
Published by Houghton
Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
This year, Kristin will keep an eye on baleful clouds, hoping that Darien's streets won't flood again.
This year, Kristin will keep an eye on baleful clouds, hoping that Darien's streets won't flood again.
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