variants or satirical

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 Abraham’s debut, which features a standout performance by Fleabag’s Clifford, cleverly blends satirical humour with magical realism, exploring our deep need for human connection and to be seen. Zac Ntim, Deadline, 4 Sep. 2025 What’s evident is that Elizabeth shares a disposition with her satirical father. Literary Hub, 4 Sep. 2025 His upcoming credits included Ruben Östlund's satirical black comedy The Entertainment System is Down, also set to star Keanu Reeves, Kirsten Dunst, and Woody Harrelson. EW.com, 2 Sep. 2025 The movie is an adaptation of Donald Westlake’s 1997 satirical thriller The Ax, which was also adapted by the great Costa Gavras in 2005. Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 31 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for satiric
Recent Examples of Synonyms for satiric
Adjective
  • His witty, sarcastic, and often controversial commentary is the soundtrack to a generation of wrestling fans.
    Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Sep. 2025
  • She’s matched wonderfully by Cooke, who leans into her actual Manchester accent to give Cherry a stroppy, sarcastic bent and whose body looks absolutely banging wrapped in an array of oxblood, maroon, and cerise minidresses.
    Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The characters have this sharp, biting, British humor.
    Alex Ritman, Variety, 28 Aug. 2025
  • There’s Bud the biting cat, played by a feline named Tonic and who deserves a three-picture deal.
    David Fear, Rolling Stone, 28 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Only those working at the listening station (kept separate from the rest of the compound with barbed wire and a guard shack) knew what was really going on.
    A.K. Whitney, Oc Register, 9 Sep. 2025
  • Thailand says the barbed wire was set up to prevent the planting of mines and is on its own land.
    Matthew Tostevin, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Iniki is the Hawaiian word for sharp and piercing wind.
    Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Known for his bold use of color, playful bows, and signature heart motifs, Kelly’s work mixed joy and wit with sharp social commentary.
    Karissa Mitchell, Essence, 10 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Satiric.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/satiric. Accessed 16 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on satiric

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