Brutality

/bruːˈtæl.ɪ.ti/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The quality of being brutal; extreme cruelty or violence.
The brutality of the regime shocked the international community.
A brutal act or behavior.
Many innocent people suffered from the brutality of the invading forces.
The degree to which something is harsh or severe.
The brutality of the environment made survival difficult for the explorers.
A lack of compassion or mercy.
The brutality displayed in his actions left everyone horrified.

Etymology

From Latin 'brutalis', meaning 'rough, cruel, or savage'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

police brutality:
Excessive force used by law enforcement officials.
brutality of war:
The harsh realities and extreme violence that occur during warfare.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Going hard
He played the game with brutality, leaving no one untouched.
Extreme aggression
The match was filled with brutality, both sides were at it fiercely.