Meaning & Definition of word "Cruelly"

Cruelly

/ˈkruːəli/

1. In a manner characterized by a willingness to inflict pain or suffering on others.
- Example: The villain cruelly laughed as he watched his enemies struggle.
2. In a way that is harsh or pitiless.
- Example: She was cruelly treated by her peers, leading to her emotional distress.
3. With a lack of compassion or mercy.
- Example: The decision to abandon the injured animal was cruelly heartless.
4. In a manner that causes great discomfort or suffering.
- Example: He would cruelly remind her of her failures every chance he got.

From Middle English 'cruel', from Old French 'cruel', from Latin 'cruellus'.

to treat someone cruelly:

to act in a way that inflicts pain or distress on another person.

cruelly ironic:

having a twist of fate that is painful or distressing.

cruelly betrayed:

to have trust breached in a harsh or painful manner.

cruel:

having a disposition to inflict pain or suffering.

cruelty:

the quality of being cruel.

cruelness:

the state or quality of being cruel.

Meaning: Mean-spirited

Example Sentence: She can be really cruelly sometimes, just to get a reaction.

Meaning: Savage

Example Sentence: That joke was cruelly savage!