caustic
UK: ˈkɔːstɪk | US: ˈkɑːstɪk
adj. capable of burning, corroding, or destroying living tissue
adj. sharply sarcastic or critical
n. a caustic substance
caustic = caus<burn> + ic<adjective suffix>
- caus (from Greek kaustos "burned," from kaiein "to burn")
- ic (adjective-forming suffix, from Latin -icus or Greek -ikos)
Etymology Origin:
The word caustic traces back to Greek kaustikos, meaning "burning" or "capable of burning," derived from kaiein ("to burn"). This root reflects the word’s dual modern meanings: its literal sense (chemical burning) and metaphorical extension (scathing criticism). The suffix -ic standardizes it as an adjective. The logic is clear: just as fire destroys physically, sharp words can "burn" emotionally.
The spill caused a caustic reaction, dissolving the metal surface.
Her caustic remarks left the audience stunned.
Sodium hydroxide is a highly caustic chemical.
He replied with caustic wit, silencing his critics.
Avoid contact with caustic substances without protective gear.