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

After getting a scathing review in 1832, he didn’t publish another volume for 10 years.

From The Wall Street Journal

The parts add up to a novel that is scathing but discursive.

From The Wall Street Journal

“We were told in no uncertain terms by our network’s lawyers, who called us directly, that we could not have him on the broadcast,” Colbert said in a scathing 6½-minute monologue.

From The Wall Street Journal

Instead of the usual warm embrace and pledge of continued cooperation, Vance delivered a scathing indictment of their policies and their principles.

From Salon

US District Judge Richard Leon wrote in a scathing ruling that Hegseth had unconstitutionally retaliated against Kelly in seeking to demote the retired Navy captain.

From BBC

Related Words

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