a cruel act; a deliberate infliction of pain and suffering
"The villagers were horrified to discover that his cruelty involved trapping young birds in narrow cages until they starved."
feelings of extreme heartlessness
"The judge sentenced the defendant to community service after discovering a profound cruelty in his treatment of stray animals."
An indifference to suffering or pleasure in inflicting suffering.
"The guard's cruelty was evident when he laughed while watching the dog struggle under the weight of its own chain."