Cruel

/ˈkruːəl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Willfully causing pain or suffering to others, or feeling no concern about it.

The cruel ruler imposed harsh punishments on anyone who opposed him.

Unpleasantly harsh or severe.

She faced a cruel winter that left many without shelter.

Characterized by a lack of compassion or mercy.

His cruel remarks during the argument hurt her feelings deeply.

Causing pain or suffering as an inherent quality.

The cruel game showed no mercy to its players, eliminating them without hesitation.

Middle English 'crueel', from Old French 'cruel', from Latin 'crudelis' meaning 'rough, savage'.

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.

cruelty

The quality of being cruel; inhumanity.

cruel-hearted

Someone who shows cruelty or lacks compassion.

cruelness

The state or quality of being cruel.

Cold-hearted

Don't be so cold-hearted; show some compassion.

Savage

That was a savage move, totally cruel!