cruelty-free

adjective

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

Examples of cruelty-free in a Sentence

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.
Many consumers deliberately buy fair-trade coffee, cruelty-free cosmetics or environmentally responsible products. Mark Bartholomew, The Conversation, 23 Apr. 2026 Vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologist-tested, what’s not to love? Kiana Murden, Vogue, 21 Apr. 2026 The fragrances are vegan, cruelty-free, use cotton wicks, and are made without phthalates or lead. Gretta Monahan, Boston Herald, 19 Apr. 2026 Most popular hair serums at Sephora for $50+ This vegan, cruelty-free serum features a blend of natural ingredients to help boost hair density and prevent shedding. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 14 Apr. 2026 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 3 May. 2026.

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