sarcasm
n.-
1 mocking irony (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatethe use of words that mean the opposite of what you really want to say, usually to insult someone or show you are annoyed.
the use of verbal irony to mock or convey contempt; typically uncountable when referring to the concept or style of speech.
Example"Oh, great," he said with heavy sarcasm when he saw the pouring rain.
ExampleThe professor's lecture was laced with subtle sarcasm, directed primarily at the students who had clearly failed to complete the required reading.
PitfallHe said with a lot of sarcasms.He said with a lot of sarcasm.When referring to the general style of speaking, 'sarcasm' is uncountable and does not take an 's'.
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2 a sarcastic remark (n.) C1 Advanced Formala specific comment or remark that uses sarcasm.
a specific instance or act of using acerbic language to mock; countable in this sense.
ExampleShe ignored his little sarcasms and continued explaining her plan.
ExampleThe diplomat managed to maintain his composure despite the series of petty sarcasms leveled at him by the opposition leader during the debate.
From Late Latin sarcasmus, from Ancient Greek σαρκασμός (sarkasmós, “a sneer”), from σαρκάζω (sarkázō, “I gnash the teeth (in anger)”, literally “I strip off the flesh”), from σάρξ (sárx, “flesh”).
- Nounsarcasm
- Adjectivesarcastic