Definition of sardonicnext

Synonym Chooser

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

Example 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 However, her inner voice reveals a sardonic sense of humor, cunning intellect, and keen eye for details most people would miss… because Emily has a big secret. Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Dec. 2025 There is a mood to these stories, sardonic and anguished in turn, that gets under your skin. Emma Alpern, Vulture, 2 Dec. 2025 Perhaps the distance was a result of Goldman’s eventual drug use or the appearance of The Professor of Desire published in 1977, whose sardonic portrait of David Kepesh drew heavily on Goldman. Literary Hub, 20 Oct. 2025 The time to be sardonic had passed. Eddie Huang, Curbed, 9 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sardonic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sardonic
Adjective
  • Past statements or e-mails can be taken out of context, with dangerous results, so carefully phrase your statements in board meetings or in e-mails, — and avoid intemperate or sarcastic remarks.
    Kelly G. Richardson, Oc Register, 9 Jan. 2026
  • It was greeted by the sound of loud, sarcastic cheering by the old London Road end and by Malcolm Shotton, Oxford’s moustachioed coach, who could have used the Pringles logo as a passport photo, throwing his jacket into the crowd in sarcastic celebration.
    The Athletic UK Staff, New York Times, 3 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • But it’s set apart from the rest of her work by a long, satirical section sending up gothic fiction and its fans.
    Erin Somers, The Atlantic, 6 Jan. 2026
  • But the tone is often more satiric than somber, Park highlighting Man-su’s foibles and insecurities.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 6 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Half of my drawing was in black and white, showing a woman walking away from barbed wire and a prison tower.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 7 Jan. 2026
  • Who knew barbed wire could be so interesting?
    Pam LeBlanc, Southern Living, 3 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • How to Clean Baking Sheets With Vinegar Vinegar is an acidic ingredient that can cut through grease and lift stains.
    Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 11 Jan. 2026
  • The acidic properties of this inexpensive, nontoxic, and eco-friendly household cleaner help to break down grease, loosen dried-on food, and neutralize funky odors.
    Gemma Johnstone, The Spruce, 10 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Sardonic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sardonic. Accessed 16 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on sardonic

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