Meaning & Definition of word "Caustic"
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Caustic
/ˈkɔːstɪk/
noun:
- 1. A caustic substance; a corrosive material.
- Example: Sodium hydroxide is a common caustic used in cleaning products.
adjective:
- 1. Able to burn or corrode organic tissue by chemical action.
- Example: The caustic substance spilled on the laboratory floor, creating a hazardous situation.
- 2. Sarcastic in a scathing and bitter way.
- Example: Her caustic remarks during the meeting made it clear she was frustrated with the team's performance.
Etymology
From Greek 'kaustikos' meaning 'able to burn, burning', from 'kausis' meaning 'a burning'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
caustic comment:
A remark that is sharply critical or sarcastic.
caustic soda:
A strong alkaline compound used in cleaning agents and various industrial processes.
caustic wit:
A form of humor that involves clever and often harsh sarcasm.
Related Words
causticity:
The quality of being caustic.
caustically:
In a caustic manner.
Slang Meanings of caustic
Meaning: Bitterly sarcastic.
Example Sentence: He can be pretty caustic when he's in a bad mood.
Meaning: Poisonous in conversation.
Example Sentence: Her caustic tongue got her into trouble at work.