Khayr Posted May 4, 2010 sarcasm Meaning 1 : a sharp and often satirical or ironic utterance designed to cut or give pain 2 *a : a mode of satirical wit depending for its effect on bitter, caustic, and often ironic language that is usually directed against an individual b : the use or language of sarcasm Did you know? If you've ever been hurt by a remark full of cutting sarcasm, you have some insight into the origins of the word. "Sarcasm" can be traced back to the Greek verb "sarkazein," which initially meant "to tear flesh like a dog." "Sarkazein" eventually developed extended senses of "to bite one's lips in rage," "to gnash one's teeth," and eventually "to sneer." "Sarkazein" led to the Greek noun "sarkasmos," ("a sneering or hurtful remark"), iterations of which passed through French and Late Latin before arriving in English as "sarcasm" in the mid-16th century. Even today sarcasm is often described as sharp, cutting, or wounding, reminiscent of the original meaning of the Greek verb From Webster's dictionary In today's age, sarcasm rather then frankness and honesty is the preferred method of communication. It is a norm nowadays to be sarcastic towards someone (as a sign of gentleness and mannerism) rather then being upfront. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
