deleterious

Definition

Harmful, often in a subtle or unexpected way.

Etymology

Adapted borrowing (1640s; 1582 as deletorious) of New Latin dēlētērius, dēlētōrius + -ous, from Ancient Greek δηλητήριος (dēlētḗrios, “noxious, deleterious”), from δηλητήρ (dēlētḗr, “a destroyer”), from δηλέομαι (dēléomai, “I hurt, damage, spoil, waste”). Not related to delete or deleble. Doublet of deletery.

Example Sentences

• "deleterious effects"
• "deleterious to someone's health"
• "Or might it suffice him, that every wholesome growth should be converted into something deleterious and malignant at his touch?"