ruthless

[ rooth-lis ]

adjective

1. without pity or compassion; cruel; merciless:

   a ruthless tyrant.

   Synonyms: relentless, adamant, unrelenting

ruthless

/ ˈruːθlɪs /

adjective

1. feeling or showing no mercy; hardhearted

Derived Forms

• ˈruthlessness, noun
• ˈruthlessly, adverb

Other Words From

• ruthless·ly adverb
• ruthless·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of ruthless¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English; ruth + -less

Synonym Study

See cruel.

Example Sentences

The lawsuit alleges that a “corrupt, unlawful, and unconstitutional” relationship between law enforcement and the “ruthless killers” allowed for the murder.

From BBC

"The Labour Party’s unprecedented persecution and ruthless treatment of its own socialist members, representatives and voters is disgraceful", said Ms Winter in a statement.

From BBC

An unrelenting second-half display, during which the clinical Parkhead side added a further three goals, proves the manager's ruthless demands were worthwhile as they delivered an ominous message to their overwhelmed opposition.

From BBC

From a ruthless press to proactive possession football, from a daring high line to a complexly shape-shifting 3-4-3 formation, the hallmarks of Amorim’s football will be etched into muscle memory in detailed training sessions.

From BBC

Some of the harshest criticism comes from her friends, who describe Stewart as ruthless; they say that people felt abused by her and liken her to a great white shark.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• barbarous
• brutal
• callous
• cold-blooded
• cruel
• cutthroat
• ferocious
• fierce
• harsh
• inhuman
• malevolent
• merciless
• rancorous
• relentless
• sadistic
• savage
• unforgiving
• unrelenting
• unyielding
• vicious