Blackhearted

/ˈblækhɑrtəd/ adjective

Definition

Fundamentally evil, wicked, or malicious; possessing a cruel and immoral nature.

Etymology

Compound adjective from 'black' + 'hearted,' combining the metaphorical use of 'black' (evil) with 'hearted' (having a specified nature). Emerged in medieval English to describe character flaws.

Kelly Says

This word perfectly demonstrates how poets and writers used bodily metaphors—the 'heart' as the seat of morality—which is why 'blackhearted' sounds so much more poetic than simply saying 'evil' or 'cruel.'

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