Acerbic and acerb ultimately come from the Latin adjective acerbus, which can mean "harsh" or "unpleasant." Another English word that comes from acerbus is exacerbate, which means "to make more violent or severe."

What is an example of a acerbic?

Acerbic is defined as language or actions which are hostile or sharp. An example of being acerbic is when someone's tone of voice is harsh. Sour in taste. Sharp or biting, as in character or expression.

What does acerbic wit mean?

used to describe something that is spoken or written in a way that is direct, witty, and cruel: The letters show the acerbic wit for which Parker was both admired and feared. SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases. Unkind, cruel & unfeeling. acerbity.