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Definition of ruthlessness

ruthlessness

/ˈruːθ.ləs.nəs/
ruth · less · ness
Adverb:ruthlessly
•
Adjective:ruthless
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ruthlessness Lexical Profile

ruthlessness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of having or showing no pity, mercy, or compassion for others; uncompromising harshness or severity in pursuing a goal.

Example

"The executive was known for her sheer ruthlessness at the negotiating table, never hesitating to outmaneuver smaller competitors."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for ruthlessness

• Nearby Words

rutabaga
ruthless
ruthlessly
ruthlessness
ruvuma
rux
ruzizi

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English noun 'ruth' (meaning 'pity' or 'compassion'), which is related to the verb 'rue' ('to feel sorrow or regret'), combined with the privative suffix '-less' and the noun-forming suffix '-ness'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ruthlessness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ruthlessness
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