How to Memorize

sadistic - cruel

Analysis

Somebody who is ‘sadistic’ is not just vicious or cruel towards others, they actually enjoy inflicting pain, punishment or humiliation on them, whether that be physical or mental. Despite the serious nature of the term, it can sometimes be used in a humorous context.

Example(s)

1. The serial killer was a ruthless and sadistic man who enjoyed making his victims suffer before murdering them.

2. My wife volunteered me to give a speech at the reception. I think she derives some sort of sadistic pleasure from seeing me suffer!

3. The former governor of the prison was a sadist who used medieval torture methods to punish inmates.