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vitriolic

adjective/ˌvɪtriˈɑlɪk/

definition

filled with bitter criticism or malice

example

The politician's vitriolic attacks on his opponent alienated many potential voters.

synonyms
causticacerbicscathing
word origin — from Latin 'vitriolum', meaning 'sulphate of iron'; figuratively associated with bitterness

TOEFL Vocabulary — Set 152

Set 152 of TOEFL Vocabulary covers 5 words: vitriolic, strategic, raucous, rapacious, conventional. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. vitriolic · adjective/ˌvɪtriˈɑlɪk/

    filled with bitter criticism or malice

    The politician's vitriolic attacks on his opponent alienated many potential voters.

    Synonyms: caustic, acerbic, scathing

    Origin: from Latin 'vitriolum', meaning 'sulphate of iron'; figuratively associated with bitterness

  2. strategic · adjective/strəˈtiːdʒɪk/

    relating to the identification of long-term or overall aims and interests and the means of achieving them

    The company's strategic plan focuses on expanding its market share over the next five years.

    Synonyms: tactical, planned, calculated

    Origin: The word 'strategic' is derived from the Greek word 'strategos', meaning 'general' or 'military leader', which is composed of 'stratos' (army) and 'ago' (to lead).

  3. raucous · adjective/ˈrɔ.kəs/

    making a disturbing or harsh noise

    The raucous laughter from the party next door made it impossible for me to concentrate on my work.

    Synonyms: noisy, boisterous, loud

    Origin: Derived from the Latin word 'raucus,' meaning 'hoarse' or 'rough in sound.'

  4. rapacious · adjective/rəˈpeɪ.ʃəs/

    having or showing a strong eagerness for greedily seeking to acquire or possess something, usually wealth

    The rapacious investors sought to acquire every profitable asset in the market, disregarding the consequences of their greed.

    Synonyms: greedy, ravenous, voracious

    Origin: from Latin 'rapax', meaning 'grasping' or 'seizing', derived from 'rapere', which means 'to seize'

  5. conventional · adjective/kənˈvɛnʃənl/

    based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed

    Many people still prefer the conventional methods of teaching rather than embracing newer techniques.

    Synonyms: traditional, customary, standard

    Origin: From Middle French 'conventionnel', from Latin 'conventionem' (to come together)