scathing

adjective

scath·​ing ˈskā-ṯẖiŋ How to pronounce scathing (audio)
: bitterly severe
a scathing condemnation
scathingly adverb
Choose the Right Synonym for scathing

caustic, mordant, acrid, scathing mean stingingly incisive.

caustic suggests a biting wit.

caustic comments

mordant suggests a wit that is used with deadly effectiveness.

mordant reviews of the play

acrid implies bitterness and often malevolence.

acrid invective

scathing implies indignant attacks delivered with fierce severity.

a scathing satire

Examples of scathing in a Sentence

a scathing review of the book a scathing rebuttal of the latest theory concerning the assassination
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Sarah Gorden and Angelina Anderson both offered a scathing rebuke of Eddy. Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 3 Nov. 2025 Stewart asked in a scathing monologue. Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 3 Nov. 2025 The same instances of serious misconduct were flagged in the two scathing federal reports that led to Rollins’ resignation two years ago. Gayla Cawley, Boston Herald, 27 Oct. 2025 Tensions between Youngquist and DPS staff reached new heights — at least publicly — this spring after Marrero sent a scathing email to board President Carrie Olson, which laid out numerous grievances against Youngquist. Jessica Seaman, Denver Post, 27 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for scathing

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of scathing was in 1865

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Scathing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scathing. Accessed 11 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

scathing

adjective
scath·​ing
ˈskā-t͟hiŋ
: painfully harsh
a scathing look
scathingly
-t͟hiŋ-lē
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on scathing

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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