cruelty

/ˈkruːlti/

Definitions

1. noun

the quality of being cruel; the act of treating someone or something with cruelty.

“The documentary exposed the animal cruelty in the factory farm.”

2. noun

a cruel or heartless act or action.

“Her cruelty to her sister was shocking, and it broke their relationship.”

3. noun

the state of being subjected to cruel or hard treatment.

“The prisoner endured great cruelty at the hands of his captors.”

Synonyms

  • brutality
  • cruelness
  • heartlessness

Antonyms

  • compassion
  • kindness
  • mercy