scathing

American  

[skey-thing] / ˈskeɪ ðɪŋ /

adjective

1. bitterly severe, as a remark.

   a scathing review of the play.

2. harmful, injurious, or searing.

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scathing British  

/ ˈskeɪðɪŋ /

adjective

1. harshly critical; scornful

   a scathing remark

2. damaging; painful

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Other Word Forms

• scathingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of scathing

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

Example Sentences

Amorim was axed after a turbulent 14 months in charge at Old Trafford culminated with his scathing criticism of the United hierarchy last weekend.

From Barron's

Ratcliffe has been publicly scathing of some of United's transfer dealings prior to his arrival but the jury is still out on incomings on his watch.

From Barron's

“The Award” is a scathing satire of the publishing world.

From The Wall Street Journal

With the population so low, commercial salmon fishing has been closed for the last three years — earning Bonham scathing criticism.

From Los Angeles Times

Lawler took his scathing rebuke to the House floor, again calling it “idiotic.”

From Salon

Related Words

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