Pronunciation: [kɹˈuːəlti] (IPA) 
The word "cruelty" is spelled with a "c", "r", "u", "e", "l", "t", and "y". The "c" is pronounced as /k/, the "r" as /r/, the "u" as /u/, the "e" as /ɛ/, and the "l" as /l/. The "t" is pronounced as /t/ and the "y" as /i/. The word "cruelty" means intentional and unnecessary infliction of pain or suffering on an animal or person. It is important to remember the correct spelling of this word when discussing acts of cruelty.
Cruelty is a noun that refers to the deliberate act of inflicting pain, suffering, or harm upon others, both physically and emotionally. It involves the absence of compassion, empathy, or any concern for the well-being of others, demonstrating a malicious intent to cause pain or anguish. The concept of cruelty is often associated with behavior that transgresses accepted moral or ethical standards in society.
The term can encompass a wide range of actions, whether committed by individuals, groups, or even institutions, and may manifest in various forms such as physical abuse, torture, neglect, or psychological manipulation. It implies a lack of mercy or kindness towards others, often stemming from a desire to exert power, control, or dominance over those who are perceived as weaker or vulnerable.
Cruelty can extend beyond human interactions and be directed towards animals or the natural environment. In such cases, it involves causing unnecessary harm, torment, or suffering to living beings or ecosystems.
The recognition and condemnation of cruelty as a moral wrong have led to the establishment of legal frameworks and social norms that proscribe and punish such behavior. Societies often enact laws and guidelines to deter and prevent acts of cruelty, seeking to protect victims and promote empathy, understanding, and a more compassionate way of life.
• Inhumanity; savageness.
• Inhumanity; disposition to inflict sufferings.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word cruelty derives from the Old French term cruelte which can be traced back to the Latin word crudelitas, meaning cruelty or savagery. Crudelitas is further derived from the Latin word crudelis, translating to cruel or bloodthirsty.
