Synonyms of sarcasm

sarcasm

noun

ˈsär-ˌka-zəm 

as in insult

an act or expression showing scorn and usually intended to hurt another's feelings

I know you're not happy, but there's no need to resort to petty sarcasms to make your point

Synonyms & Similar Words

• insult
• outrage
• indignity
• barb
• offense
• epithet
• slight
• slap
• affront
• slur
• personality
• dart
• name
• attack
• criticism
• brickbat
• poke
• put-down
• dis
• sneer
• disgrace
• invective
• taunt
• dig
• vituperation
• abuse
• quip
• shame
• disapproval
• gibe
• cut
• mock
• jeer
• gird
• opprobrium
• swipe
• torture
• catcall
• dishonor
• knock
• torment
• slam

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• compliment
• praise
• commendation
• applause
• flattery
• acclaim
• accolade
• adulation

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun sarcasm differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of sarcasm are humor, irony, repartee, satire, and wit. While all these words mean "a mode of expression intended to arouse amusement," sarcasm applies to expression frequently in the form of irony that is intended to cut or wound.

given to heartless sarcasm

When might humor be a better fit than sarcasm?

The words humor and sarcasm are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, humor implies an ability to perceive the ludicrous, the comical, and the absurd in human life and to express these usually without bitterness.

a sense of humor

When can irony be used instead of sarcasm?

While in some cases nearly identical to sarcasm, irony applies to a manner of expression in which the intended meaning is the opposite of what is seemingly expressed.

the irony of the title

In what contexts can repartee take the place of sarcasm?

While the synonyms repartee and sarcasm are close in meaning, repartee implies the power of answering quickly, pointedly, or wittily.

a dinner guest noted for repartee

When is satire a more appropriate choice than sarcasm?

In some situations, the words satire and sarcasm are roughly equivalent. However, satire applies to writing that exposes or ridicules conduct, doctrines, or institutions either by direct criticism or more often through irony, parody, or caricature.

a satire on the Congress

When would wit be a good substitute for sarcasm?

The meanings of wit and sarcasm largely overlap; however, wit suggests the power to evoke laughter by remarks showing verbal felicity or ingenuity and swift perception especially of the incongruous.

a playful wit

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of sarcasm

And normally, that kind of cynicism and sarcasm would be celebrated here. —Zach Harper, New York Times, 3 Mar. 2026

Montgomery took to social media to respond to the ESPN report, employing a fair bit of sarcasm in doing so. —Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 2 Mar. 2026

Harrison Ford was honored with the SAG-AFTRA Life Achievement Award, a prize presented with warm sarcasm by Woody Harrelson. —ABC News, 1 Mar. 2026

Meanwhile, sitcoms like Friends marked a movement toward irony in comedy with its trademark tongue-in-cheek banter and sarcasm, Thompson explains. —Liz Regalia, Parents, 31 Jan. 2026

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