SARDONIC Synonyms: 89 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'sardonic' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of sardonic are ironic , sarcastic , and satiric . While all these words mean "marked by bitterness and a power or will to cut or sting," sardonic implies scorn, mockery, or derision that is manifested by either verbal or facial expression. // surveyed the scene with a sardonic smile

Q: When is 'ironic' a more appropriate choice than 'sardonic'?

The words ironic and sardonic can be used in similar contexts, but ironic implies an attempt to be amusing or provocative by saying usually the opposite of what is meant. // made the ironic observation that the government could always be trusted

Q: Where would 'sarcastic' be a reasonable alternative to 'sardonic'?

The synonyms sarcastic and sardonic are sometimes interchangeable, but sarcastic implies an intentional inflicting of pain by deriding, taunting, or ridiculing. // a critic known for his sarcastic remarks

Q: When might 'satiric' be a better fit than 'sardonic'?

Although the words satiric and sardonic have much in common, satiric implies that the intent of the ridiculing is censure and reprobation. // a satiric look at contemporary society

sardonic

adjective

sär-ˈdä-nik

Definition of sardonic next

as in sarcastic

marked by the use of wit that is intended to cause hurt feelings a sardonic little jab that made her visitor quiet and subdued for the rest of the night

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How is the word sardonic different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of sardonic are ironic, sarcastic, and satiric. While all these words mean "marked by bitterness and a power or will to cut or sting," sardonic implies scorn, mockery, or derision that is manifested by either verbal or facial expression.

surveyed the scene with a sardonic smile

When is ironic a more appropriate choice than sardonic?

The words ironic and sardonic can be used in similar contexts, but ironic implies an attempt to be amusing or provocative by saying usually the opposite of what is meant.

made the ironic observation that the government could always be trusted

Where would sarcastic be a reasonable alternative to sardonic?

The synonyms sarcastic and sardonic are sometimes interchangeable, but sarcastic implies an intentional inflicting of pain by deriding, taunting, or ridiculing.

a critic known for his sarcastic remarks

When might satiric be a better fit than sardonic?

Although the words satiric and sardonic have much in common, satiric implies that the intent of the ridiculing is censure and reprobation.

a satiric look at contemporary society

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of sardonic Indeed, the Australian writer-director laces the film’s many tall tales — like how Pinky’s second husband was eaten by a crocodile right in front of her eyes — with sardonic humor meant to mollify and entertain in equal measure. —

Manuel Betancourt, Los Angeles Times, 25 Oct. 2024 Millions more cram the sidewalks to clap, bang drums, and wave sardonic homemade signs. —

Frederick Dreier, Outside Online, 9 Nov. 2024 Suzanne Pleshette played Bob’s sardonic and knowing wife Emily, with I Dream of Jeannie co-star Bill Daily constantly intruding as their goofball neighbor, Howard Borden. —

Matt Zoller Seitz, Vulture, 19 July 2024 The Wednesday Creeper combines hard and soft design details, almost to reflect its namesake’s own hard and sardonic exterior versus her deeply felt emotions. —

Esther Newman, refinery29.com, 23 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sardonic

Recent Examples of Synonyms for sardonic

Adjective

If the landing is bad, applause would be insultingly sarcastic.

— Sydney Borchers, Fox News, 16 Jan. 2025
If someone calls you out for being sarcastic, here are some ways to recover and mend the miscommunication Be mindful of your filter.

— Anne Sugar, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025