Learn a Word Daily — Mordant
Today’s word is "Mordant": Sharply critical or biting.
|
Word of the Day · February 9, 2026
Mordant
MOR-dunt · adjective
|
|
Definition
Sharply critical or biting, often in a witty or darkly humorous way.
|
Origin & Etymology
From Latin mordēre, meaning “to bite,” which perfectly captures the sharp edge of the word.
|
Nuance
Mordant humor cuts deep — it’s clever and funny, but with an unmistakable bite.
|
Usage
“His mordant commentary made the audience laugh — and wince — at the same time.”
|
Fun Fact
In chemistry and dyeing, a mordant is a substance that helps dye “bite” into fabric — a surprisingly perfect metaphor.
|
| |
Discover More Words You May Have Missed
|
| |
|
|
| |
We value your time and your inbox. You’re receiving
Learn a Word Daily because you chose to subscribe.
If these emails ever stop being useful, you can
unsubscribe below instantly
— we value your time.
Thank you! 💛
|
|
|