Legal Dictionary
Main Entry:
cru·el·tyFunction:
nounInflected Form:
plural -ties 1 a : an intentional or criminally negligent act that causes pain and suffering <
cruelty to animals> <
cruelty to children>
b : mistreatment or neglect that causes pain and suffering —compare
ABUSE NOTE: 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 NOTE: Cruelty is a ground for divorce.