vituperative
UK: vɪˈtjuːpərətɪv | US: vɪˈtuːpəreɪtɪv
adj. Harshly critical or abusive in language.
vituperative = vituper<blame> + ative<adjective suffix>
- vituper (from Latin vituperare, "to blame or censure")
- ative (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives, indicating "tending to" or "characterized by")
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin vituperare, combining vitium (fault, defect) and parare (to prepare or set up). Over time, it evolved to describe language that "sets up faults" or relentlessly criticizes. The suffix -ative solidifies its role as an adjective, emphasizing a tendency toward verbal abuse.
His vituperative remarks during the debate alienated the audience.
The critic’s vituperative review crushed the artist’s confidence.
She regretted her vituperative outburst as soon as the words left her mouth.
Political discourse often descends into vituperative exchanges.
The article was dismissed for its vituperative tone rather than its substance.