/krooh"euhl tee/ , n. , pl. cruelties for 3.
1. the state or quality of being cruel.
2. cruel disposition or conduct.
3. a cruel act.
4. Law. conduct by a spouse that causes grievous bodily harm or mental suffering.
[ 1175-1225; ME cruelte crudelitat- (s. of crudelitas ). See CRUEL, -ITY ]
Syn. 1. harshness, brutality, ruthlessness, barbarity, inhumanity, atrocity.
Ant. 2, 3. kindness.