Cruelty
ˈkruːəlti
Definitions
Deliberate infliction of pain or suffering on others, or the disposition to do so.
ˈkruːəlti
The act of causing pain or suffering to others.
The dictator was notorious for his cruelty towards his political opponents.
💡 Simply: Cruelty is when someone intentionally does something to hurt another person or animal, either physically or emotionally. Imagine a bully making fun of someone's clothes – that's cruelty.
👶 For kids: Cruelty is when someone is mean and hurts others on purpose.
More Examples
Animal rights activists fight against the cruelty of factory farming.
Witnessing the cruelty of the war left her deeply traumatized.
How It's Used
"The cruelty inflicted on animals is a major concern."
"The defendant was charged with acts of cruelty."
"The novel explores the depths of human cruelty."
Idioms & expressions
cruel and unusual punishment
Punishment considered unacceptable because it is extremely severe or inappropriate.
"The Eighth Amendment to the US Constitution prohibits cruel and unusual punishment."
From Old French cruelté, from Latin crudelitas, derived from crudelis ('cruel').
The word 'cruelty' has been used in English since the 13th century, reflecting societal concerns about human treatment and morality.
Memory tip
Think of a 'cruel tea party': a party where people are intentionally hurt.