vitriol

[vi-tree-uhl]

noun

1. Chemistry.,  any of certain metallic sulfates of glassy appearance, as copper sulfate or blue vitriol, iron sulfate or green vitriol, zinc sulfate or white vitriol, etc.

2. oil of vitriol; sulfuric acid.

3. something highly caustic or severe in effect, as criticism.

verb (used with object)

vitrioled, vitrioling , vitriolled, vitriolling .

1. to treat with or as with vitriol, especially sulfuric acid.

vitriol

/ ˈvɪtrɪˌɒl /

noun

1. another name for sulphuric acid

2. any one of a number of sulphate salts, such as ferrous sulphate ( green vitriol ), copper sulphate ( blue vitriol ), or zinc sulphate ( white vitriol )

3. speech, writing, etc, displaying rancour, vituperation, or bitterness

verb

1. to attack or injure with or as if with vitriol

2. to treat with vitriol

vitriol

1. A former name for sulfuric acid.

2. Any of various sulfates of metals, such as ferrous sulfate (green vitriol), zinc sulfate, or copper sulfate (blue vitriol).

3. See also blue vitriol

Word History and Origins

Origin of vitriol¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Medieval Latin vitriolum, vitreolum, equivalent to Latin vitre(us) vitreous + -olum, neuter of -olus -ole ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of vitriol¹

C14: from Medieval Latin vitriolum, from Late Latin vitriolus glassy, from Latin vitrum glass, referring to the glossy appearance of the sulphates

Example Sentences

He said: "The vitriol which was contained within her communications was more than evident."

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The theory, perhaps, is that ingratiating themselves to the locals during this week's tune-ups might soften the vitriol which comes their way over the weekend.

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He practically governs by fiat on Truth Social as if he were a medieval lord, while his minions relentlessly disperse their anger and vitriol across cyberspace.

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Kirk’s assassination, City Hall said, “serves as a stark reminder of the devastating outcomes that can result from vitriol and violent rhetoric.”

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His beliefs also swung toward extremism, as he often spouted vitriol against racial and religious minorities, LGBTQ+ people, childless women, progressives and others who disagreed with him.

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Related Words

• nastiness www.thesaurus.com
• sarcasm 
• venom