pestilent

English

Etymology

(This etymology is missing or incomplete. Please add to it, or discuss it at the Etymology scriptorium.) Middle English, from Latin pestilent-, pestilens pestilential, from pestis.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ˈpɛstələnt/, /ˈpɛstɪlənt/, /ˈpɛstlənt/

Adjective

pestilent (comparative more pestilent, superlative most pestilent)

1. Highly injurious or destructive to life: deadly.
2. (informal) Annoying.
3. (archaic) Harmful to morals or public order.

Synonyms

• (harboring disease, annoying): pestiferous

Related terms

• pest
• pestiferous
• pestilential