Meaning & Definition of word "Caustic"
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.