mordant
adjective/noun
Having or showing a sharp or critical quality; biting and caustic, especially of humor. As a noun, a substance that fixes dyes to materials.
Etymology
From French "mordant," present participle of "mordre" (to bite), from Latin "mordere" (to bite). Critical wit that "bites."
Examples in Use
- 1.
"Her mordant humor spared no one, including herself."
- 2.
"The mordant commentary cut through political pretense."
- 3.
"Alum was used as a mordant in traditional dyeing."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
In textile arts, mordants literally "bite" into fabric fibers, allowing dyes to bond permanently. The metaphorical meaning developed because caustic wit similarly "bites" into subjects, leaving lasting impressions.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 7 letters (M, O, R, D, A, N, T)
Scrabble Value: 10 points
Tip: Try building from common prefixes or suffixes when you spot these letters.
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