mordacious
adjective
Given to biting; sharp or caustic in speech or manner. Describes a tendency to attack through words or actions.
Etymology
From Latin "mordax" (biting), from "mordere" (to bite). Related to "mordant" and "remorse" (which bites back at conscience).
Examples in Use
- 1.
"The mordacious critic spared no one in his reviews."
- 2.
"Her mordacious wit could reduce opponents to silence."
- 3.
"The puppy was playful but a bit too mordacious."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
While "mordant" (biting in wit) is common, "mordacious" is rarer. Both come from the same Latin root but took different paths—mordacious emphasizes the biting tendency, mordant the biting effect.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 10 letters (M, O, R, D, A, C, I, O, U, S)
Scrabble Value: 15 points
Tip: The letter pattern in "MORDACIOUS" appears in many related words.
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