Definition

The quality or state of being unkind or causing pain to others.

Example

The cruelness of his actions shocked everyone in the community.

Conversation

Did you hear about the incident at school yesterday?

Yeah, it was shocking how much cruelness some students can show.

I can't believe people can be so mean to each other.

It's really sad; we need to promote kindness instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cruelness is formed from "cruel" (from Old French *cruel*, meaning harsh or severe) and "-ness" (a suffix meaning the state or quality of). The word "cruelness" refers to the state of being cruel or harsh.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'cruel' which means harsh, and remember that 'cruelness' describes the quality of being harsh.

Visually Confused Words