Mordant

Adjective

Definition: (of humor) having or showing a sharp or critical quality; biting.

Synonyms: Caustic, Sarcastic, Acerbic

Antonyms: Gentle, Kind, Complimentary

Examples:
  • His mordant wit always made people uncomfortable.
  • The comedian's mordant comments about the political situation garnered both laughter and controversy.
Mnemonics:
  • "Mor" sounds like "more" - a mordant person tends to crave more biting humor.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "mordant" comes from the Old French word "mordant" and the Latin word "mordere," meaning "to bite."

Historical Usage:

Mordant has been used in English since the 15th century to describe biting or caustic humor or remarks.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Mordant wit"

Explanation:

Refers to a sharp or sarcastic sense of humor that is often critical or biting in nature.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "mordant" with "morbid."

Explanation:

While both words begin with "mor" and have negative connotations, they have different meanings. "Mordant" specifically refers to sharp or biting humor, while "morbid" refers to a gruesome or unhealthy fascination with death or decay.

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