scathing

[ skey-thing ]

adjective

1. bitterly severe, as a remark:

   a scathing review of the play.

2. harmful, injurious, or searing.

scathing

/ ˈskeɪðɪŋ /

adjective

1. harshly critical; scornful

   a scathing remark

2. damaging; painful

Derived Forms

• ˈscathingly, adverb

Other Words From

• scathing·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of scathing¹

First recorded in 1785–95; scathe + -ing ²

Example Sentences

Scathing sentences already took shape in his brain, but deeper investigation would be necessary before he could write anything.

From Project Gutenberg

Scathing letters are all right, but they should be directed and stamped, then burned just before they are trusted to the mails.

From Project Gutenberg

Scathing comments by Franklin on Thomas Penn's meanness, 138.

From Project Gutenberg

Scathing as some of the portraits are, the writer is by no means merely cynical.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• biting
• caustic
• harsh
• mordant
• sarcastic
• scorching
• searing
• trenchant
• withering