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Cruel /kɹuː(ə)l/

The meaning and definition of Cruel, with examples, synonyms, and a word game to make it stick.

Definition

verb
  1. To spoil or ruin (one's chance of success)
  2. To violently provoke (a child) in the belief that this will make them more assertive.
adjective
  1. Intentionally causing or reveling in pain and suffering; merciless, heartless.
    “The supervisor was very cruel to Josh, as he would always give Josh the hardest, most degrading work he could find.”
  2. Harsh; severe.
adverb
  1. To a great degree; terribly.
Synonyms sadistic brutal
Antonyms merciful

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