Spanish Conversation · Level 132
45 words
Spanish word
mordaz
Pronunciation
IPA/moɾˈðaθ/
Meaning
- adjectivebiting
Example
Su comentario fue mordaz y todos se sorprendieron.
His comment was biting and everyone was surprised.
More examples
Su respuesta mordaz dejó claro que no estaba de acuerdo.
His biting reply made it clear that he did not agree.
Core concept
A short, barbed remark that wounds emotionally.
Common phrases
comentario mordaz
biting comment
humor mordaz
biting humor
respuesta mordaz
biting reply
Similar words
sarcástico: Mocking remark that says the opposite of what is meant to scorn the target.
irónico: Statement that superficially praises while implying the opposite meaning.
ácido: Harsh, scathing words or tone that feel emotionally cold and severe.
cortante: Short, blunt remark that dismisses or shuts down the other person.
Definition in Spanish
Que expresa crítica o ironía de forma breve y muy punzante, capaz de herir los sentimientos del oyente.
Word origin
From Latin mordax 'biting' (from mordēre 'to bite'), the adjective names a figurative 'biting' quality used for speech that sharply criticizes or hurts feelings.
Usage tips
- Pronunciation differs by region: in Spain final z is like English th, in most of Latin America it is like s, and mordaz normally labels brief, cutting comments rather than lengthy critiques.