English Reference
Noun

vitriol

n.
C1 Advanced US /ˈvɪtɹiəɫ/ UK /vˈɪtɹiːəl/ vit·ri·ol UK spelling vitrioled, vitrioling, vitriols

n.extremely strong and angry words used to criticize someone. It is a very formal word for being very rude or mean.

n.extremely harsh or bitter language used to criticize or attack someone. Often used to describe a tone of speech or writing that is intentionally cruel or spiteful.


SIMPLE

The politician's speech was full of vitriol toward his opponents.

CONTEXTUAL

The review was filled with vitriol, making it difficult for the reader to focus on the actual performance.

COMPLEX

While the debate was heated, the moderator managed to keep the vitriol at bay, ensuring that the discussion remained focused on policy rather than personal insults.

On that last front, Trump succeeded, as Canadians reacted to this outrageous decision with their own vitriol and bluster.

Toronto Sun· 31 Aug 2026

As a result, when it premiered, parochialism-driven vitriol was expected on the US side.

JSTOR Daily· 20 Aug 2026

From Middle English vitriol, from Old French vitriol, from Medieval Latin vitriolum (“sulfuric acid”), from vitrum (“glass”).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin la-med vitriolum
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated