1
as in brutal
having or showing the desire to inflict severe pain and suffering on others
a cruel dictator who tortured anyone who dared to speak out against him cruel and unusual punishments are forbidden by the U.S. Constitution
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in harsh
difficult to endure
the cruel climate of the Arctic
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in painful
hard to accept or bear especially emotionally
the cruel situation of being orphaned at an early age
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
4
as in malicious
having or showing a desire to cause someone pain or suffering for the sheer enjoyment of it
the bully was fond of making cruel little jabs at his victim's sore points
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in cruelty
disposition to willfully inflict pain and suffering on others
far from being healers, the doctors in the Nazi death camps were notable for their senseless cruelness
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share