# snide

/ˈsnaɪd/ (US) · /snˈaɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/snide
Updated: 2026-10-19

## Definition

mean in an indirect, unpleasant way that tries to hurt or mock someone. You use it for comments or jokes that sound clever but feel unkind.

For teachers: marked by indirect contempt or mockery, often delivered through a cutting remark, joke, or tone of voice. Implies an intent to belittle while keeping a thin cover of humour or detachment.

## Examples

- She makes a snide comment about my cooking.
- He gives a snide smile when his coworker asks for help with the report.
- Behind his snide jokes about her hometown lay a discomfort he never addressed directly, preferring mockery to honest conversation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.