The term NASTY BRUTE is a phrase used to describe someone who is cruel and intimidating. The two crossword solutions for this term are MEANIE (6 letters) and OGRE (4 letters). MEANIE is a slang term for someone who is mean or unkind, while an OGRE is a mythical creature that is often depicted as a large, ugly, and violent monster. Both words can be used to describe someone who is nasty and brutish in their behavior.