savagery
UK: ˈsæv.ɪdʒ.ər.i | US: ˈsæv.ɪdʒ.ər.i
n. cruel, violent, or uncontrolled behavior
n. the quality of being primitive or uncivilized
n. a brutal or vicious act
The word "savagery" derives from "savage," which entered Middle English from Old French sauvage, meaning "wild" or "untamed." This, in turn, traces back to Latin silvaticus ("of the woods," from silva, "forest"). The suffix "-ery" (from Old French -erie) denotes a state or condition, transforming "savage" into an abstract noun describing the quality of wildness or brutality. Over time, "savagery" evolved to emphasize extreme violence or lack of civilization, reflecting societal views of untamed nature as inherently dangerous.
The savagery of the attack shocked the entire community.
Colonial narratives often exaggerated the savagery of indigenous peoples.
The documentary exposed the savagery of illegal poaching.
His speech condemned the savagery of war.
The novel explores the thin line between civilization and savagery.