sardonic
definition
grimly mocking or cynical
example
His sardonic humor often left his friends unsure whether to laugh or feel insulted.
synonyms
sarcasticcynicalscornful
word origin — The word 'sardonic' is derived from the French 'sardonique,' which comes from the Latin 'sardonicus,' meaning 'of Sardinia.' It refers to the infamous 'Sardinian plant' that was said to cause a grim expression on the face of those who consumed it.