variants or satirical
Definition of satiricnext

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of satiric are ironic, sarcastic, and sardonic. While all these words mean "marked by bitterness and a power or will to cut or sting," satiric implies that the intent of the ridiculing is censure and reprobation.

a satiric look at contemporary society

When can ironic be used instead of satiric?

Although the words ironic and satiric have much in common, 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 sarcastic be a good substitute for satiric?

In some situations, the words sarcastic and satiric are roughly equivalent. However, sarcastic implies an intentional inflicting of pain by deriding, taunting, or ridiculing.

a critic known for his sarcastic remarks

Where would sardonic be a reasonable alternative to satiric?

The meanings of sardonic and satiric 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

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 satiric In addition to The Exile, AK Studios’ previous credits also include Thinesh Kumar’s satirical comedy Hucch, which was also picked up by Buffalo 8. Liz Shackleton, Deadline, 12 May 2026 Schumacher’s other works include two short story collections, a satirical coloring book, and five novels for young readers. Literary Hub, 11 May 2026 Part satirical, part political, the BAFTA-winning film and subsequent album, Fine Art — a level up from their 2018 Irish-language mixtape 3CAG — solidified Kneecap’s place in music, earning them fans worldwide who come out in droves to their gigs and turning them into a popular festival draw. Lily Moayeri, SPIN, 6 May 2026 The Boys is an American satirical dark comedy television show that flips the conventional superhero narrative on its head by imagining a society where superpowers are abused for influence and profit. Encyclopedia Britannica, 5 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for satiric
Recent Examples of Synonyms for satiric
Adjective
  • Now, in a more intimate setting, the sullen and sometimes-sarcastic shadings of this longtime singer-songwriter should hark back to Folds’ fledgling days on the alt-music scene.
    David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 May 2026
  • In addition to Miranda's scathing remarks to Andy (Anne Hathaway) while trying to complete seemingly impossible tasks, Emily (Emily Blunt) and Nigel (Stanley Tucci) taught her how to navigate office politics with their own sarcastic comments.
    Christopher Rudolph, PEOPLE, 3 May 2026
Adjective
  • Misogyny runs deep, quiet, local, and sharp as barbed wire.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 May 2026
  • Surveillance camera footage captured Mott scaling an 8-foot fence topped with barbed wire at the perimeter of the airport in just 15 seconds, then walking across the runway.
    Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 13 May 2026
Adjective
  • Most varieties prefer full sun to partial shade and rich, slightly acidic soil that drains well.
    Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 13 May 2026
  • Rex Reed, a critic and journalist known for his brash, often acidic takes on films and filmmakers, died Tuesday at his Manhattan home.
    Brent Lang, Variety, 12 May 2026
Adjective
  • Insults were par for the course at The Roast of Kevin Hart, but some jokes had more acid than others.
    Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 11 May 2026
  • If choosing wines, focus on bright, higher-acid white wines that cut through the mouth-coating fattiness of cheese.
    Anna Lee Iijima, Chicago Tribune, 20 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Satiric.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/satiric. Accessed 19 May. 2026.

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