Cruelty (noun)

1. The quality or state of being cruel.
2. Actions or conduct that cause pain or suffering to others.

Origin:

Middle english: from old french crualte, from latin crudelitas, from crudelis "cruel".

Examples:

1. The cruelty of the dictator's regime was well-known.
2. He was arrested for cruelty to animals.
3. The cruelty she faced as a child still haunts her.
4. The cruelty of the war left many people traumatized.
5. He was known for his cruelty to his subordinates.