Malice as a Baby Name. Meaning and Origin of Malice

What is the meaning of the name Malice ?

The baby name Malice is a Unisex name , 2 syllables long and is pronounced /ˈmælɪs/ (MAL-iss).

Malice is English in Origin.

Malice is an English word-name derived from Old French malice and ultimately Latin malitia, from malus (“bad”). In English it denotes ill will or intent to harm; in Modern French malice often softens to “mischief.” As a given name it is exceedingly rare and largely modern, appearing sporadically in edgy, gothic, or stage-name contexts rather than in traditional records. Usage is unisex, though minimal; common nicknames include Mal.

Variant spellings such as Malyce or Mallise occur in contemporary naming but lack historical footing. A noteworthy lookalike is Malise (pronounced MAL-iss), the Scots form of Gaelic Maol Íosa, meaning “devotee of Jesus,” borne by medieval Earls of Strathearn and Orkney - distinct in origin and sense. Linguistic cognates of the word include French malice, Spanish malicia, and Italian malizia, none customary as given names. For a similar sound with a softer meaning, consider Alice or Melissa.