Definition

Noun: 1. A disposition or tendency to bite: A characteristic of being prone to biting, either literally (as with an animal) or figuratively. 2. A sharp, biting quality in expression: A characteristic of speech, wit, or criticism that is caustic, sarcastic, or severely critical.

Usage and Examples

• Literal sense (disposition to bite):

• Figurative sense (biting quality of expression):

Advanced Usage

• "with mordacity": Used to describe an action performed in a bitingly sarcastic or severe manner. > He delivered his rebuttal devastating .

Variants and Related Words

• Mordant (adjective): Having a biting or caustic quality. >
• Mordancy (noun): A synonym for , meaning a biting quality. >

Synonyms

• Causticity: The quality of being sarcastic in a scathing and bitter way.
• Trenchancy: Keenness and forcefulness of thought or expression.
• Acerbity: Sharpness and directness in speech, often with a sense of bitterness.
• Sarcasm: The use of irony to mock or convey contempt.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• A biting remark: A critical or sarcastic comment. (This is a common phrase that embodies the concept of in speech.) > that silenced the room.*

Noun

1. a disposition to biting