cruelty-free
KROO-uhl-tee-free
/ˈkruːəlti friː/
Manufactured or developed by methods that do not involve cruelty to animals (e.g., no animal testing).
Often refers specifically to the testing phase of cosmetics and household goods, whereas 'vegan' refers to the ingredients themselves.
The story behind the word. The term emerged in the 1950s alongside the animal rights movement, specifically targeting the use of animals in laboratory experiments for non-medical products.
Word relationships
- not animal-tested: A more literal, less emotive description of the same concept.
- animal-tested: Products that have been tested on animals during development.
Commonly confused with
- vegan: Vegan means no animal ingredients; cruelty-free means no animal testing. A product can be one without being the other.
Collocations
- cruelty-free cosmetics
- cruelty-free brand
- certified cruelty-free
Example sentences
- "The Leaping Bunny logo is the gold standard for cruelty-free certification in the beauty industry." Consumer advocacy.
- "She only buys cruelty-free makeup to ensure no rabbits were harmed in the testing process." Product labeling.
Memory hook
Think of a 'free' animal that is not being treated with 'cruelty' in a lab. No harm, no testing.
When not to use
A product can be 'cruelty-free' (not tested on animals) but still contain animal ingredients (like beeswax), so don't use it as a synonym for 'vegan'.
Fun facts
- The first 'cruelty-free' label was used by Lady Dowding, who founded 'Beauty Without Cruelty' in 1959.
Explore more words
humane, abuse, manufacturing, wellness, botanical, quality control
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