sardonic
What does "sardonic" mean?
Sardonic describes a way of speaking or acting that is grimly mocking, cynical, or skeptically humorous. Think of a person who has seen the worst of a situation and responds with a dry, biting laugh rather than anger; it is the humor of someone who feels superior or disillusioned. The term implies a sense of bitterness or derision. It is most commonly used to describe smiles, laughter, or comments that feel cold and intellectual rather than warm or lighthearted. Use it when someone is being "too clever" or "too sharp" for their own good in a cynical way.
"sardonic" in conversation
Work meeting
Oh, so the new software update will fix everything by Friday?
Oh, so the new software update will fix everything by Friday?
That is a profoundly sardonic take on our current tech crisis.
That is a profoundly sardonic take on our current tech crisis.
Sardonic is often used to describe a comment that highlights the absurdity of a hopeless situation.
Watching a movie
Did you like the lead character?
Did you like the lead character?
He was okay, but his sardonic wit got old after the first hour.
He was okay, but his sardonic wit got old after the first hour.
Used here to describe a personality trait that involves constant, biting sarcasm.
"sardonic" in a sentence
He gave a sardonic smile after hearing the bad news.
He gave a sardonic smile after hearing the bad news.
The comedian is famous for his sardonic commentary on modern politics.
The comedian is famous for his sardonic commentary on modern politics.
She maintained a sardonic detachment, refusing to be moved by the grand speeches.
She maintained a sardonic detachment, refusing to be moved by the grand speeches.
