Meaning & Definition of word "Acerbic"

Acerbic

/əˈsɜːrbɪk/

adjective:

  • 1. having a sharp or bitter taste or smell.
    • Example: The acerbic flavor of the lemon made the dish remarkably refreshing.
  • 2. sharp and forthright in speech or writing; biting or cutting in tone.
    • Example: Her acerbic comments during the meeting left many of her colleagues uncomfortable.
  • 3. harsh or severe in criticism.
    • Example: His acerbic review of the play stunned the actors and critics alike.

Etymology

Derived from Latin 'acerbus', meaning 'harsh' or 'bitter'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

acerbic wit:

A form of humor that is sharp and often cutting.

acerbic comment:

A remark that is biting or harshly critical.

Related Words

acerbity:

The quality of being acerbic.

acerbate:

To make (a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling) worse.

Slang Meanings of acerbic

Meaning: Biting humor

Example Sentence: Her acerbic humor often left people unsure whether to laugh or be offended.

Meaning: Sarcastic remarks

Example Sentence: He replied with an acerbic remark that silenced the room.