cruelty
|cru-el-ty|
B2
/ˈkruːəlti/
inhumanity
Etymology
Etymology Information
'cruelty' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'crualté', where 'cruel' meant 'hard-hearted'.
Historical Evolution
'crualté' transformed into the Middle English word 'crueltee', and eventually became the modern English word 'cruelty'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'hard-heartedness', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'inhumanity or a cruel act'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality or state of being cruel; inhumanity.
The cruelty of the dictator was known worldwide.
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Antonyms
Noun 2
a cruel act or a cruel remark.
The cruelty of his words left her in tears.
Synonyms
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45