cruelty-free

adjective

cru·​el·​ty-free ˈkrü(-ə)l-tē-ˈfrē How to pronounce cruelty-free (audio)
: developed or produced without inhumane testing on animals
cruelty-free cosmetics

Examples of cruelty-free in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Ideal for layering after actives like retinol or vitamin C, this vegan, cruelty-free cream is a gentle yet effective choice for dry, irritated, or acne-prone skin. Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 26 May 2025 Not to mention, the fact that it’s made without parabens, phthalates, and synthetic dyes while being cruelty-free and vegan is just the cherry on top. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 23 May 2025 Made of faux leather, the fabric is high-quality, water-resistant, and cruelty-free. Izzy Baskette, People.com, 22 May 2025 The line is vegan and cruelty-free, and formulated in an Australian lab. Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for cruelty-free

Word History

First Known Use

1983, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cruelty-free was in 1983

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Cite this Entry

“Cruelty-free.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cruelty-free. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.

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