1. Cruel and violent: This is the most common meaning. It describes someone or something that is intentionally harmful and shows no mercy.
* Example: "The dog was vicious and attacked the mailman."
2. Intense and malicious: This refers to something that is full of anger and spite. It can describe a feeling or an action.
* Example: "The politician launched a vicious attack on his opponent."
3. Severe and harsh: This meaning describes something that is difficult to endure or cope with. It can refer to weather, circumstances, or even a person's personality.
* Example: "The winter was vicious, with heavy snow and freezing temperatures."
4. A vicious circle: This refers to a situation where one problem leads to another, which in turn worsens the first problem, creating a continuous cycle.
* Example: "The company was caught in a vicious circle of low sales and layoffs."
5. A vicious habit: This describes a harmful or damaging habit that is difficult to break.
* Example: "He has a vicious habit of biting his nails."
The specific meaning of "vicious" will be clear based on the context in which it is used.