CAUSTIC Meaning and
Definition
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Caustic is an adjective that describes something that is capable of burning, corroding, or destroying living tissue. It is often used to refer to chemicals or substances that have a highly corrosive nature, such as strong acids or alkalis. Caustic substances can cause severe damage to the skin and other biological tissues on contact.
In a broader sense, caustic can also refer to language or remarks that are extremely critical, harsh, or sarcastic. A caustic remark is one that is intentionally hurtful, designed to cause emotional pain or humiliation. Such comments often display a sharp wit and a biting sense of humor, but can also be mean-spirited or malicious.
Caustic can also be used to describe a situation or event that is destructive, devastating, or highly damaging. For example, a caustic fire refers to a fire that burns fiercely and destroys everything in its path. Similarly, a caustic political environment implies a highly hostile or toxic atmosphere where personal attacks and animosity prevail.
Overall, caustic denotes a detrimental or corrosive characteristic, whether it be in the physical, verbal, or metaphorical sense. It describes something that has the potential to cause harm, destruction, or intense emotional distress.
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1. Corrosive; exerting an effect resembling a burn; escharotic. 2. An agent producing this effect.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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• Burning; corroding; that has power to destroy a living texture.
• A substance that acts like fire when applied to a living body; nitrate of silver.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CAUSTIC
Etymology of CAUSTIC
The word "caustic" originates from the Greek word "kaustikos" (καυστικός), derived from the verb "kaiein" (καίειν), meaning "to burn". In ancient Greek, the term was used to describe a substance that had the property of burning or corroding. The word was later adopted into Latin as "causticus" and eventually made its way into English in the early 17th century. Over time, its meaning expanded to include a metaphorical sense of biting or sarcastic speech, in addition to its original sense of corrosiveness.
Similar spelling words for CAUSTIC
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