Sarcasm
/ˈsɑːr.kæ.zəm/noun
The use of irony to mock or convey contempt.
Did you know?The ancient Greek word 'sarkazein' literally means 'to tear flesh', hinting at how biting remarks can cause emotional wounds.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
σάρξ (sarx)
“flesh, meat, body.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
σαρκάζω (sarkazō)
“to tear flesh, to sneer.”
Late Latin
Latin
sarcasmus
“a sneering or mocking speech.”
Middle French
French
sarcasme
“a mocking or ironic remark.”
Early Modern English
English
sarcasm
“a sharp, often satirical or ironic remark.”
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