cru·el·ty n pl -ties
1 a: an intentional or criminally negligent act that causes pain and suffering
cruelty to children
b: mistreatment or neglect that causes pain and suffering compare abuse
◇ Cruelty is an aggravating circumstance to a crime (as murder).
2: a spouse's conduct that endangers life or health or causes mental suffering or fear – called also cruel and inhuman treatment;
◇ Cruelty is a ground for divorce.
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of Law. Merriam-Webster. 1996.