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.