Cruelest Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cruelest
[หkruหษlist ]
Definition
degree of cruelty
The term 'cruelest' refers to someone or something that is the most cruel in comparison to others. It describes extreme harshness, lack of compassion, and a tendency to inflict pain or suffering on others.
Synonyms
harshest, most brutal, most inhumane, most savage.
Examples of usage
- The bully was the cruelest student in school.
- History remembers him as one of the cruelest rulers.
- In the competition, she was deemed the cruelest of all the contestants.
- Their cruelest actions left a lasting impact on the community.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Shakespeare often depicted cruel characters, showcasing human nature's darker sides in plays like 'King Lear'.
- In his poem 'The Prelude', William Wordsworth described the cruelties of nature, blending both physical and emotional elements.
- Modern literature frequently explores cruelty in relationships, reflecting societal issues and personal struggles.
Psychology
- Studies show that cruelty can stem from a lack of empathy, where individuals fail to recognize others' feelings.
- People sometimes act cruelly as a psychological defense mechanism, protecting their own vulnerabilities by hurting others.
- Bullying is a common example of cruelty, often perpetuated by group dynamics and social pressure.
History
- Throughout history, cruel leaders have often faced revolts, demonstrating the natural human resistance against oppression.
- The cruelty of war is documented as far back as ancient civilizations, where tactics were extremely brutal.
- Cultural perspectives on what is considered cruel have changed over time, affecting laws and societal norms.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'The Cruel Intentions' delve into the cruelty found in high society and interpersonal relationships.
- Many famous songs discuss the pain of cruel love or betrayal, reflecting personal experiences of listeners.
- Social media platforms can amplify cruelty, where anonymity fosters harsh comments and bullying behaviors.
Origin of 'cruelest'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'crudelis', which means 'rough' or 'savage'.
- It has been used in English since the 14th century, showing how long this idea of unkindness has existed.
- Originally, it referred to physical harm but evolved to include emotional and psychological pain as well.
The word 'cruel' is derived from the Latin 'crudelis', meaning 'rough' or 'rude'. It transitioned into Old French as 'cruel', eventually entering Middle English. In its evolution, the suffix '-est' was added to denote the superlative degree, indicating the highest level of cruelty. The concept of cruelty has existed throughout history, often associated with the acts of violence, deprivation, and a lack of empathy. This term has been used in literature and legal contexts to highlight the severity of actions taken against others, reflecting societal attitudes towards morality and justice.