brutality

noun

bru·​tal·​i·​ty brü-ˈta-lə-tē How to pronounce brutality (audio)
plural brutalities
1
: the quality or state of being brutal
2
: a brutal act or course of action

Examples of brutality in a Sentence

the brutalities of a prison the police were accused of brutality for using excessive force in making arrests
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Hate and rationalization of all the provenances of brutality. David Bezmozgis, New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2025 The case has drawn national attention to issues of police brutality and racial bias, particularly in how law enforcement engages with individuals with disabilities. Essence, 28 Mar. 2025 This extreme display of violence immediately sparked a significant controversy, with many wrestling fans expressing concerns about the level of brutality showcased. Paul Du Quenoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Mar. 2025 Although the issue of police brutality, along with officers adopting the Punisher’s logo, echoes real-life occurrences, the storyline largely serves to force Matt and Fisk back into each other’s orbits. Shirley Li, The Atlantic, 26 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for brutality

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Medieval Latin brūtālitāt-, brūtālitās, from brūtālis "brutish, bestial" + Latin -itāt-, -itās -ity — more at brutal

First Known Use

1550, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of brutality was in 1550

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Brutality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/brutality. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

brutality

noun
bru·​tal·​i·​ty brü-ˈtal-ət-ē How to pronounce brutality (audio)
plural brutalities
1
: the quality or state of being brutal
2
: a brutal act or course of action

More from Merriam-Webster on brutality

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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