sarcastic
Americanadjective
-
characterized by sarcasm
-
given to the use of sarcasm
Related Words
See cynical.
Other Word Forms
- quasi-sarcastic adjective
- quasi-sarcastically adverb
- sarcastically adverb
- sarcasticalness noun
- sarcasticness noun
- supersarcastic adjective
- supersarcastically adverb
- unsarcastic adjective
- unsarcastical adjective
- unsarcastically adverb
Etymology
Origin of sarcastic
First recorded in 1685–95; sarc(asm) + -astic, on the model of enthusiasm ( def. ): enthusiastic ( def. ); -ic ( def. )
Compare meaning
How does sarcastic compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
He throws me a scowl, but I see his usual sarcastic playfulness dance in his eyes, so I know his gruffness is just his usual, and not directed at me specifically.
From Literature
She was withdrawn to a standing ovation in the second half and there were sarcastic cheers as the stadium announcer teased the player of the match.
From BBC
Someone in the audience began clapping—a hard, separated noise that rang to my ear as sarcastic.
From Literature
I have no idea if he’s being sincere or sarcastic, but I just say, “Thanks.”
From Literature
I’m so used to Karly’s snide remarks that I assume she’s being sarcastic.
From Literature
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
