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Definition of sardonically

sardonically

/sɑːrˈdɑːnɪkli/
sar · don · i · cal · ly
Adjective:sardonic
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sardonically Lexical Profile

sardonically Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a grimly mocking, disdainful, or cynical manner.

Example

"The veteran journalist smiled sardonically as the politician promised to eliminate all government corruption within a week."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for sardonically

• Nearby Words

sardinia
sardinian
sardonic
sardonically
sargassum fish
sarge
sargent

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the adjective sardonic plus the adverbial suffix -ally; sardonic ultimately derives via French and Latin from the Ancient Greek sardanios, traditionally linked to a poisonous Sardinian plant (sardonion) believed to cause fatal facial convulsions resembling a grim, mocking smile.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sardonically. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sardonically
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