cruelly
UK: ˈkruːəli | US: ˈkruːəli
Definition
adv. in a cruel manner; with deliberate intent to cause suffering
adv. harshly or severely
Structure
cruel <inflicting pain>ly <adverb suffix>
Etymology
The word "cruelly" derives from the adjective "cruel," which entered Middle English from Old French "cruel," itself originating from Latin "crudelis" (hard-hearted, severe). The suffix "-ly" is an Old English adverbial marker, turning adjectives into adverbs. Over time, "cruelly" evolved to describe actions performed with intentional harshness or indifference to suffering, reflecting the original Latin sense of unrelenting severity.
Examples
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