Synonyms for

Biting

Verb / ˈbaɪtɪŋ / Another word for biting — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

causing a sharp, stinging sensation

Synonyms & similar words

mordacious pungent bite nipping seizewithteeth prick barbed burn bitter sting sharp pungent acrid acerbic cutting barbed caustic searing stinging sour tart bitter harsh incisive keen penetrating sarcastic scathing sardonic acerb

Synonyms by register

Formal

caustic acerbic sharp acrid

Informal

sharp cutting nasty mean

Literary

keen incisive piercing

Antonyms

mild gentle warm pleasant soothing temperate

Common collocations

  • biting wind
  • biting cold
  • biting sarcasm
  • biting wit
  • biting criticism
  • biting remark
  • biting frost

Word family

noun bite
verb bite
adjective biting
adverb bitingly

Usage note

Primarily used to describe a sharp, unpleasant sensation, often related to cold or speech. Can also describe a sharp taste or smell.

Example sentences

  1. The biting mosquito made me itch.
  2. The biting criticism hurt my feelings.
  3. The biting sarcasm was not appreciated.
  4. The biting winds made it hard to walk.
  5. The biting commentary was too harsh.

Quotes

  • A biting satire is always better than a grinding one.
  • Biting words are like venomous snakes.
  • The biting wind made me wish I had stayed inside.

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