Sardonic

From Greek sardonios, linked to Sardinia. Ancient writers described a "Sardinian plant" that supposedly made those who ate it convulse into a bitter, grinning rictus — the "sardonic" laugh. The etymology is old folklore, but the tone it names is exact.

  1. adjective · /sar-DON-ik/

    Grimly or scornfully mocking; bitterly humorous.

    The dry, dark tone that laughs without warmth — humor with an edge of disdain.

    "Well, that went perfectly," she said, with a sardonic glance at the wreckage.

    Ironic says the opposite of what is meant; sardonic adds contempt on top.