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Wordabulary

vitriolic

Pronunciation
Adjective C1 Advanced

Quick answer

Filled with bitter, harsh criticism or hatred.

"The senator's vitriolic response to the question shocked even his own supporters."

Synonyms and antonyms

Synonyms

scathing venomous

Antonyms

Usage notes

The word originally referred to vitriol, an old name for sulfuric acid, which explains the sense of something corrosive.

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "The senator's _____ response to the question shocked even his own supporters."

Answer: vitriolic

In your own words, what does "vitriolic" mean?

Filled with bitter, harsh criticism or hatred.

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