acerbic
adjective | /acerbic/
Advanced WordsMEDIUM
sharply or bitingly critical, sarcastic, or ironic in temper, mood, or tone
acerbic
adjective | /acerbic/
Advanced WordsMEDIUMsharply or bitingly critical, sarcastic, or ironic in temper, mood, or tone
Learning Progress
Synonyms
bittercausticacerbcuttingharsh
Antonyms
gentlekindmildpleasantcordial
Examples
"Her acerbic comments during the review stung the team."
"The column's acerbic tone alienated some readers."
Mnemonic Trick
ACERBIC → ACID + BIC: think acidic bite in speech.
Etymology
From Latin acerbus “harsh, sour.”
Describes sharp or biting speech or style.
Source: Advanced WordsAdded: 9/15/2025
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