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 the late 1990s, Cohen debuted the satirical character as a hip-hop journalist known for his bravado and London street slang. Ryan Gajewski, HollywoodReporter, 22 July 2026 Supporters embraced the insult as a badge of resistance, turning it into a satirical political campaign that amassed more than 21 million Instagram followers in a few days. Aijaz Hussain, Los Angeles Times, 19 July 2026 Yet Ada is an absolute delight, hilariously satirical and brilliantly made. Diana Arterian, Literary Hub, 16 July 2026 Trump wrote, finishing with a satirical salute to the Islamist country’s god. Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 11 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for satiric
Recent Examples of Synonyms for satiric
Adjective
  • The other sarcastic superhero-ed character that makes a few cameos in the film has their own connection to Spider-Man – again, centered on loneliness and eventually learning to open up from their own recent film.
    Laura Sirikul, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026
  • In the present, Lara meets Mari, a sarcastic and blunt high school tomboy who competes as a boxer.
    Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 24 July 2026
Adjective
  • These prickly hairs are for protection, with barbed ends that easily penetrate the skin of predators or your hand.
    Markis Hill, Kansas City Star, 26 July 2026
  • The confrontation between father and daughter, in which Taylor-Joy unloads Lucky’s resentments about growing up in the life, is one of the season’s most barbed moments.
    Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 15 July 2026
Adjective
  • Blueberries are easy to grow when provided with acidic soil, consistent moisture, and adequate sunlight, Martha explains.
    Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 28 July 2026
  • In a separate experiment, researchers at PNNL fed the acidic BPMED stream to cultures of the fast-growing microalgae.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 27 July 2026
Adjective
  • There was an acid trip of a halftime show starring Madonna, Justin Bieber, BTS, and Shakira.
    Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 22 July 2026
  • Lithium-ion, lead-acid, sodium-ion and other technologies all have a role to play in the electrification landscape.
    Darren Tan, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Satiric.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/satiric. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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