vitriolic
UK: ˌvɪtriˈɒlɪk | US: ˌvɪtriˈɑːlɪk
adj. filled with bitter criticism or malice
adj. resembling or containing vitriol (sulfuric acid)
vitriolic = vitriol<glass/sulfuric acid> + ic<adjective suffix>
- vitriol: From Latin vitriolum ("glassy substance"), derived from vitrum ("glass"), referring to the glassy appearance of sulfate crystals. Later associated with sulfuric acid due to its corrosive nature.
- ic: A suffix forming adjectives, indicating "pertaining to" or "characterized by."
Etymology Origin:
The word vitriolic traces back to the Latin vitrum ("glass"), as early alchemists named sulfate salts (vitriolum) for their glass-like appearance. Sulfuric acid, later called oil of vitriol, became notorious for its corrosive properties. By the 18th century, vitriol metaphorically described caustic speech, giving rise to vitriolic as an adjective for biting criticism. The evolution mirrors the literal-to-figurative shift from chemical burn to verbal burn.
Her vitriolic remarks during the debate alienated the audience.
The critic’s vitriolic review devastated the young artist.
Political discussions often descend into vitriolic exchanges.
His tone was so vitriolic that even his supporters winced.
The editorial condemned the vitriolic rhetoric spreading online.