Meaning & Definition of word "Cruel"
to
Cruel
/ˈkruːəl/
adjective:
- 1. Willfully causing pain or suffering to others, or feeling no concern about it.
- Example: The cruel ruler imposed harsh punishments on anyone who opposed him.
- 2. Unpleasantly harsh or severe.
- Example: She faced a cruel winter that left many without shelter.
- 3. Characterized by a lack of compassion or mercy.
- Example: His cruel remarks during the argument hurt her feelings deeply.
- 4. Causing pain or suffering as an inherent quality.
- Example: The cruel game showed no mercy to its players, eliminating them without hesitation.
Etymology
Middle English 'crueel', from Old French 'cruel', from Latin 'crudelis' meaning 'rough, savage'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
cruel and unusual punishment:
Punishment that is considered unacceptable or inhumane.
cruel twist of fate:
An unexpected event that results in a severe or harsh consequence.
cruel to be kind:
A phrase suggesting that a harsh action may ultimately benefit someone.
Related Words
cruelty:
The quality of being cruel; inhumanity.
cruel-hearted:
Someone who shows cruelty or lacks compassion.
cruelness:
The state or quality of being cruel.
Slang Meanings of cruel
Meaning: Cold-hearted
Example Sentence: Don't be so cold-hearted; show some compassion.
Meaning: Savage
Example Sentence: That was a savage move, totally cruel!