Synonyms for

Sarcasm

Verb / ˈsɑ:ˌrkæzʌm / Another word for sarcasm — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

the use of irony to mock or convey contempt

Synonyms & similar words

irony causticremark satire mockery ridicule taunt irony satire sneering scorn derision scoffing contempt insult sardonicism causticity dryness virulence mordancy acerbity sharpness acerbicness acridity

Synonyms by register

Formal

irony incongruity wit

Informal

snark sass banter teasing

Literary

lampoon satire

Antonyms

earnestness sincerity genuineness honesty straightforwardness candor

Common collocations

  • dry sarcasm
  • cutting sarcasm
  • utter sarcasm
  • heavy sarcasm
  • sarcasm and irony
  • tone of sarcasm
  • sense of sarcasm

Word family

noun sarcasm
adjective sarcastic

Usage note

Sarcasm is often used to convey contempt or ridicule. While related to irony, sarcasm typically has a more biting or mocking tone.

Example sentences

  1. His sarcastic comment hurt her feelings.
  2. She couldn't tell if he was being serious or using sarcasm.
  3. The sarcasm in his voice was obvious.
  4. She used sarcasm to hide her true feelings.
  5. His sarcasm was a defense mechanism.

Quotes

  • Sarcasm: the last refuge of modest and chaste-souled people when the privacy of their soul is coarsely and intrusively invaded.
  • Sarcasm is the lowest form of wit, but the highest form of intelligence.
  • Sarcasm is the secret language that everyone uses when they want to say something mean to your face.

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