vitriolic

[vi-tree-ol-ik]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or resembling vitriol.

2. obtained from vitriol.

3. very caustic; scathing.

   vitriolic criticism.

   Synonyms: bitter, acid
   Antonyms: mild, bland

vitriolic

/ ˌvɪtrɪˈɒlɪk /

adjective

1. (of a substance, esp a strong acid) highly corrosive

2. severely bitter or caustic; virulent

   vitriolic criticism

Other Word Forms

• nonvitriolic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of vitriolic¹

First recorded in 1660–70; vitriol + -ic

Example Sentences

The messaging became "vitriolic", with Mrs Spragg contacting police investigators, and saying: "Everyone knows the McCanns are guilty and you know the truth and a massive cover-up is happening."

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"They understand they want the crowd to support them but not to be vitriolic against us."

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It seems Elmo’s world recently included vitriolic racist and antisemitic social media posts.

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It seems Elmo’s world recently included vitriolic racist, antisemitic and foul-mouthed social media posts.

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"There are some social media channels that are particularly vitriolic and are descending into a gutter," said Brasher.

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Related Words

• antagonistic 
• biting 
• bitter 
• caustic 
• harsh