mordant
sharply sarcastic or biting in style
Word origin: From Latin mordere, to bite.
Using “mordant” well
Mordant describes humor or criticism that is sharply sarcastic and biting, cutting yet often clever. Note the unrelated noun mordant in dyeing, a fixative that sets color.
More GRE words starting with M
disturbing and horrifying because concerned with death
a ceremonial staff carried as a symbol of authority, or a heavy spiked club used as a weapon
to soften or break down by soaking in liquid
a scheming or crafty plot intended to do harm
a violent whirlpool or scene of turbulent disorder
having or showing great authority and command
the quality of being generous, noble-minded, and forgiving, especially toward rivals or enemies
generous and forgiving, especially toward a rival or weaker party
Questions about “mordant”
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