Răn'cor, n.

(răngk'ur), n. [O. Fr. rancor, rancore, rancoeur, rancueur, rancure, rancune, N. Fr. rancune, Pr. rancor, rancura, O. Sp. rancor, rancura, N. Sp. rencor, Pg. rancor, rancura, It. rancore, rancura, L. Lat. rancura, rancuna, from Lat. rancor, rancidity, rankness, tropically an old grudge, rancor, fr. rancēre, to be rank or rancid.] The deepest malignity or spite; deep-seated and malignant enmity; inveterate hatred.

It would not be easy to conceive the passion, rancor, and malice of their tongues and hearts. Burke.

Synonyms—Enmity; hatred; ill will; malice; spite; grudge; animosity; malignity.—RANCOR, ENMITY. Enmity and rancor both describe hostile feelings; but enmity may be generous and open, while rancor is deep-seated and malignant. It implies personal malice of the worst and most enduring nature, and is the strongest word in our language to express hostile feelings.

Rancor will out, proud prelate; in thy face I see thy fury. Shak.

Rancor is that degree of malice which preys upon the possessor. His heart is torn with vexation when he contemplates the happiness of another, or when he is foiled in his evil purposes towards him. Cogan.