Synonyms of sarcastic

sarcastic

adjective

sär-ˈka-stik 

as in satiric

marked by the use of wit that is intended to cause hurt feelings

her sarcastic comments that my singing reminded her of the time her dog was sick

Synonyms & Similar Words

• satiric
• acidic
• barbed
• acid
• sardonic
• biting
• caustic
• cynical
• acerbic
• ironic
• scathing
• snarky
• corrosive
• sharp
• pungent
• mordant
• acrid
• smart-aleck
• tart
• acidulous
• harsh
• smart-alecky
• blunt
• smart-mouthed
• cutting
• concise
• sour
• wry
• acerb
• flippant
• incisive
• scalding
• poignant
• facetious
• severe
• brisk
• dry
• gruff
• spiky
• trenchant
• cross
• vitriolic
• abrupt
• sharp-tongued
• curt
• bitter
• tongue-in-cheek
• keen
• brusque
• resentful
• pithy
• acrimonious
• sourish
• terse
• succinct
• snippy
• stringent
• insincere
• backhanded
• crisp
• tartish
• rough
• snippety

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• amusing
• playful
• mild
• merry
• gentle
• droll
• bland
• waggish
• diplomatic
• polite
• sportive
• smooth
• good-natured
• urbane
• gracious
• cordial
• hospitable
• good-humored
• affable
• genial
• sociable
• suave

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of sarcastic are ironic, sardonic, and satiric. While all these words mean "marked by bitterness and a power or will to cut or sting," sarcastic implies an intentional inflicting of pain by deriding, taunting, or ridiculing.

a critic known for his sarcastic remarks

When is it sensible to use ironic instead of sarcastic?

In some situations, the words ironic and sarcastic are roughly equivalent. However, 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

When would sardonic be a good substitute for sarcastic?

The meanings of sardonic and sarcastic largely overlap; however, sardonic implies scorn, mockery, or derision that is manifested by either verbal or facial expression.

surveyed the scene with a sardonic smile

In what contexts can satiric take the place of sarcastic?

While in some cases nearly identical to sarcastic, satiric implies that the intent of the ridiculing is censure and reprobation.

a satiric look at contemporary society

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of sarcastic

In what neatly encapsulates the uncomfortable, rude, thin-skinned yet cruel, sarcastic and ultimately juvenile communication style of his online brood, the leader of the pack started with — what else — Lawrence’s looks. —Kevin Dolak, HollywoodReporter, 22 Apr. 2026

Peters then offered a sarcastic parting line and left the set. —Ryan Brennan april 15, Miami Herald, 15 Apr. 2026

The network at that time started overtly appealing to more liberal and progressive viewers with such hosts as Keith Olbermann, who became quickly known for his sarcastic, biting commentary on politics and Fox News and its conservative media personalities, especially O’Reilly. —Encyclopedia Britannica, 10 Apr. 2026

The fans gave him a sarcastic slow-clap, prompting him to wave his arms in encouragement. —Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 9 Apr. 2026