Pronunciation: /ˈsɑːrkæzəm/

Definitions of sarcasm

noun a sharp, bitter, or cutting expression or remark; a form of verbal irony in which a person says the opposite of what they really mean in order to mock or insult someone

Example Sentences

A1 I don't understand sarcasm.

A2 She often uses sarcasm to make jokes.

B1 His sarcasm can be quite cutting at times.

B2 The comedian's sarcasm was well-received by the audience.

C1 Her sarcasm is so subtle that some people don't even realize she's being sarcastic.

C2 The politician's use of sarcasm in his speech was seen as a way to criticize his opponents.

adjective sarcastic (characterized by sarcasm; mocking, contemptuous, or ironic in tone)

Example Sentences

A1 She used sarcasm to make a joke.

A2 His sarcasm was misunderstood by his coworkers.

B1 The teacher's sarcasm was lost on the students.

B2 Her sarcasm was so subtle that not everyone caught on.

C1 His sarcasm was so cutting that it left everyone speechless.

C2 The comedian's sarcasm was so sharp that it divided the audience.

Examples of sarcasm in a Sentence

formal The use of sarcasm in academic writing is generally discouraged.

informal Oh sure, because sarcasm always goes over so well in text messages.

slang Nice one, Captain Sarcasm.

figurative His words dripped with sarcasm as he delivered the backhanded compliment.

Grammatical Forms of sarcasm

past tense

sarcasted

plural

sarcasms

comparative

more sarcastic

superlative

most sarcastic

present tense

sarcasms

future tense

will sarcasm

perfect tense

have sarcast

continuous tense

sarcasming

singular

sarcasm

positive degree

sarcastic

infinitive

to sarcasm

gerund

sarcasming

participle

sarcastic

Origin and Evolution of sarcasm

First Known Use: 1579 year
Language of Origin: Greek
Story behind the word: The word 'sarcasm' originated from the Greek word 'sarkasmos', which means 'to tear flesh' or 'to bite the lips in rage'.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'sarcasm' has evolved to refer to a form of verbal irony where someone says the opposite of what they mean in a mocking or scornful manner.