cruelty-free

adjective

cru·​el·​ty-free ˈkrü(-ə)l-tē-ˈfrē How to pronounce cruelty-free (audio)
: developed or produced without inhumane testing on animals
cruelty-free cosmetics

Examples of cruelty-free in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This work has contributed to 12 states passing cruelty-free cosmetics laws and played a pivotal role in shaping the passage of Canada's cruelty-free cosmetics law in 2023. Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 June 2025 The cruelty-free product is also unscented, furthering its status as a safe choice for sensitive skin users. Izzy Baskette, People.com, 22 June 2025 Jeanne to punk vegan creepers from Chicago label Straight to Hell and more cruelty-free footwear from Matt & Nat. Cameos by Lala, Cumming’s sidekick rescue dog, extend The Traitors’ kitsch drama to the canine world. Ingrid Schmidt, HollywoodReporter, 21 June 2025 Ideal for layering after actives like retinol or vitamin C, this vegan, cruelty-free cream is a gentle yet effective choice for dry, irritated, or acne-prone skin. Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 26 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for cruelty-free

Word History

First Known Use

1983, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cruelty-free was in 1983

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cruelty-free.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cruelty-free. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on cruelty-free

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!