brutality

noun

bru·tal·i·ty | \ brü-ˈta-lə-tē

plural brutalities

Definition of brutality

1 : the quality or state of being brutal

2 : a brutal act or course of action

Synonyms & Antonyms Example Sentences Learn More about brutality

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Examples of brutality in a Sentence

the brutalities of a prison the police were accused of brutality for using excessive force in making arrests

Recent Examples on the Web

Some teams in the NBA and WNBA wore warm-up outfits a few years ago protesting police brutality and supporting the Black Lives Matter movement. — NBC News, "U.S. women's soccer team boldly embraces off-the-field activist role," 9 July 2019 Some teams in the NBA and WNBA wore warm-up outfits a few years ago protesting police brutality and supporting the Black Lives Matter movement. — David Crary, courant.com, "U.S. women’s team boldly embraces off-the-field activist role," 9 July 2019 Some teams in the NBA and WNBA wore warm-up outfits a few years ago protesting police brutality and supporting the Black Lives Matter movement. — David Crary, The Denver Post, "USWNT boldly embraces off-the-field activist role," 8 July 2019 In 2016, Rapinoe knelt during the national anthem in solidarity with former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick and to protest police brutality and other forms of discrimination. — Jamie Goldberg, oregonlive.com, "Megan Rapinoe not in starting lineup for USA’s 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup semifinal game against England," 2 July 2019 In one earlier tweet, Barnes was wearing a jersey of Colin Kaepernick, the former NFL player who knelt two seasons ago during the national anthem to protest police brutality and racial inequality. — Scott Bauer, The Seattle Times, "Wisconsin official apologizes to opponent over flag flap," 18 Sep. 2018 Kaepernick began a wave of protests by NFL players two seasons ago, kneeling during the anthem to protest police brutality and racial inequality. — Paulina Dedaj, Fox News, "Colin Kaepernick's grievance against NFL can move forward, arbitrator decides," 30 Aug. 2018 Robertson was referring to NFL players who have taken a knee or sat in silence during the national anthem to protest police brutality and racial inequality. — Beth Harris, chicagotribune.com, "When it comes to off-court activism, Oscar Robertson wonders: 'Where are the white athletes?'," 26 June 2018 Reid’s stance on police brutality and racial inequality has been unwavering. — Stephen A. Crockett Jr., The Root, "Former San Francisco 49ers Safety Eric Reid Files Collusion Grievance Against NFL," 2 May 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'brutality.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.