The meaning of CRUEL is disposed to inflict pain or suffering : devoid of humane feelings. How to use cruel in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Cruel.

Understanding the Context

CRUEL definition: 1. (of a person or action) extremely unkind and unpleasant and causing pain to people or animals…. Learn more. How is the word cruel different from other adjectives like it?

Key Insights

Some common synonyms of cruel are barbarous, ferocious, fierce, and savage. While all these words mean "showing fury or malignity in looks or actions," cruel implies indifference to suffering and even positive pleasure in inflicting it. CRUEL meaning: 1. (of a person or action) extremely unkind and unpleasant and causing pain to people or animals…. Learn more.

Final Thoughts

In plain English, cruel means causing pain without enough kindness, care, or mercy. The pain may be physical, emotional, or mental. For example, a cruel person may hurt others on purpose. However, a cruel action can also happen when someone ignores another person’s suffering. CRUEL definition: willfully or knowingly causing pain or distress to others. See examples of cruel used in a sentence.

1. causing or inflicting pain without pity: a cruel teacher. 2. causing pain or suffering: a cruel accident.