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caus·tic

caustic

pronunciation:
kaw stihk
parts of speech:
adjective, noun
part of speech: adjective
definition 1: capable of burning away, corroding, or destroying tissue by chemical action.
synonyms:
corrosive, mordant
similar words:
abrasive, acid, acidic, destructive
definition 2: bitingly critical.
Her mother-in-law's caustic comments about her housekeeping always incensed her.
synonyms:
biting, excoriating, mordant, pungent, sharp
antonyms:
flattering, pleasing
similar words:
abrasive, acid, acrid, astringent, corrosive, cutting, incisive, venomous, vitriolic
 
part of speech: noun
definition: a caustic substance.
derivations: caustically (adv.), causticity (n.)