from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Cruelty \Cru"el*ty\ (-t[y^]), n.; pl. {Cruelties} (-t[i^]z).
[OF. cruelt['e], F. cruaut['e], fr. L. crudelitas, fr.
crudelis. See {Cruel}.]
[1913 Webster]
1. The attribute or quality of being cruel; a disposition to
give unnecessary pain or suffering to others; inhumanity;
barbarity.
[1913 Webster]
Pierced through the heart with your stern cruelty.
--Shak.
[1913 Webster]
2. A cruel and barbarous deed; inhuman treatment; the act of
willfully causing unnecessary pain.
[1913 Webster]
Cruelties worthy of the dungeons of the Inquisition.
Macaulay.
[1913 Webster]