# savagery

/ˈsævɪˌdʒɛɹi/ (US) · /sˈævɪdʒɹˌi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/savagery
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

the quality of being very cruel, violent, or brutal. It describes actions that are shocking and lack any sense of kindness or control.

For teachers: the quality of being extremely cruel, violent, or lacking in restraint. Often used to describe physical violence or the harshness of a natural environment.

## Examples

- The savagery of the attack shocked the whole city.
- The documentary exposed the savagery of the conflict, showing how civilians were treated during the war.
- The explorer described the savagery of the jungle, where the constant humidity and lack of clean water made survival nearly impossible for the unprepared.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.