Definition for sardonic

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These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'sardonic. Send us feedback about these examples. Accessed 3 Mar. Nglish: Translation of sardonic for Spanish Speakers. Britannica English: Translation of sardonic for Arabic Speakers. Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Definition for sardonic

How is the word sardonic different from other adjectives like it? Some common synonyms of sardonic are ironic , sarcastic , and satiric. While all these words mean "marked by bitterness and a power or will to cut or sting," sardonic implies scorn, mockery, or derision that is manifested by either verbal or facial expression. The words ironic and sardonic can be used in similar contexts, but ironic implies an attempt to be amusing or provocative by saying usually the opposite of what is meant. Where would sarcastic be a reasonable alternative to sardonic? The synonyms sarcastic and sardonic are sometimes interchangeable, but sarcastic implies an intentional inflicting of pain by deriding, taunting, or ridiculing. Although the words satiric and sardonic have much in common, satiric implies that the intent of the ridiculing is censure and reprobation. Accessed 3 Mar. Nglish: Translation of sardonic for Spanish Speakers. Britannica English: Translation of sardonic for Arabic Speakers.

OED's earliest evidence for sardonic is fromin the writing of Thomas Herbert, traveller and government official.

There are two meanings listed in OED's entry for the adjective sardonic. OED is undergoing a continuous programme of revision to modernize and improve definitions. This entry has not yet been fully revised. OED's earliest evidence for sardonic is from , in the writing of Thomas Herbert, traveller and government official. Etymons: French sardonique. Some consonants can take the function of the vowel in unstressed syllables. View the pronunciation model here.

Sardonic, in simple terms, is when someone shows disdain or skepticism in a humorous way. In the realm of literature, sardonic humor is about being cynically humorous and mocking with scorn. A Modest Proposal by Jonathan Swift. There is likewise another great advantage in my scheme, that it will prevent those voluntary abortions, and that horrid practice of women murdering their bastard children, alas! Despite his sarcastic proposal to the audience , he skillfully conceals his real intentions behind a mockingly serious facade. This reflects a sardonic attitude toward the issue — a way of using humor to satirically highlight what he finds objectionable. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Well, she was less than an hour old and Tom was God knows where.

Definition for sardonic

Scornfully or cynically mocking: a sardonic sense of humor. All rights reserved. Copyright , , by Random House, Inc. Switch to new thesaurus. Based on WordNet 3. Marked by or displaying contemptuous mockery of the motives or virtues of others: cynic , cynical , ironic , ironical , wry. Mentioned in? References in classic literature? B-'s most sardonic tones, to that enviable situation.

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We have almost lists of words from topics as varied as types of butterflies, jackets, currencies, vegetables and knots! He has a knack for combining the spiritual and sincere with the sardonic and self-deprecating. English Dictionary Thesaurus Sentences Grammar. Consequently, laughter accompanying killing transforms death into a new birth, nullifies murder as such, and is an act of piety that transforms death into a new life. Japanese English to Japanese. Nglish: Translation of sardonic for Spanish Speakers. Where would sarcastic be a reasonable alternative to sardonic? English Dictionary. Quiz French confusables. Grammar Patterns. English American Examples Translations. Feedback required. Risus sardonicus is an apparent smile on the face of those who are convulsing because of tetanus or strychnine poisoning. Online Etymology Dictionary.

Paying attention and listening intently: talking about concentration. Add to word list Add to word list.

Trends of sardonic. Example from the Hansard archive. Simplified to English. Check See the answer Next Next quiz Review. Send us feedback about these examples. Definition of sardonic. Can you solve 4 words at once? Please include your email address if you are happy to be contacted about your feedback. Some common synonyms of sardonic are ironic , sarcastic , and satiric. See etymology.