savagery

noun

sav·​age·​ry ˈsa-vi-jə-rē How to pronounce savagery (audio)
ˈsa-vij-rē
plural savageries
Synonyms of savagerynext
1
a
: the quality of being savage
b
: an act of cruelty or violence
2
: an uncivilized state

Examples of savagery in a Sentence

The savagery of the attack was horrifying. an act of pure savagery the savageries committed by the soldiers
Recent Examples on the Web
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His portrayal is different than Jacob Elordi’s in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, emphasizing the character’s savagery while focusing on an intriguing new wrinkle courtesy of Gyllenhaal’s script. Tim Grierson, Vulture, 7 Mar. 2026 But those familiar with Golding’s 1954 novel will know that its macabre themes of civilization versus savagery and the nature of evil are a far step away from the West End. Diana Lodderhose, Deadline, 4 Mar. 2026 His shrieking reactions to his wife’s savagery throw into relief his good nature and her perversity. Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 25 Feb. 2026 The land of sorcerers, dragons and savagery played out across eight gripping series, drawing millions of viewers into the fictional worlds of Westeros, Essos, and beyond. Connor Sturges, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for savagery

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1616, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of savagery was circa 1616

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Cite this Entry

“Savagery.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/savagery. Accessed 14 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

savagery

noun
sav·​age·​ry ˈsav-ij-(ə-)rē How to pronounce savagery (audio)
plural savageries
1
: savage disposition or action : cruelty
2
: the state of being savage

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