Acrid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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acrid

[ˈækrɪd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

taste

having an irritatingly strong and unpleasant taste or smell

Synonyms

bitter, pungent, sharp, sour.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
acrid	Describes a strong, unpleasant smell or taste that is irritating or causes discomfort, often in a negative sense. The acrid smoke from the burning tires made our eyes water. The acrid smell of chemicals filled the laboratory.
pungent	Describes a strong, sharp smell or taste that can be either pleasant or unpleasant, but is very noticeable. The pungent aroma of garlic filled the kitchen. The cheese had a particularly pungent smell which some found off-putting.
sharp	Refers to a strong, distinct taste, smell, or sensation that can be either positive or negative. The lemonade had a sharp, refreshing taste. There was a sharp smell of ammonia when we entered the room.
bitter	Used when talking about a sharp, harsh, or unpleasant taste, often associated with negative emotions as well. The medicine had a bitter taste that lingered in my mouth. She felt a bitter resentment after being unfairly dismissed from her job.
sour	Describes a taste that is acidic and often unpleasant, commonly used in reference to food or drinks. The milk had gone sour and was undrinkable. She made a face after tasting the sour lemon.

Examples of usage

the acrid smell of burning rubber filled the air
the acrid taste of spoiled milk made her gag

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

tone

angry and bitter in tone or manner

Synonyms

bitter, caustic, sardonic, sharp.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
acrid	Use when describing a strong, unpleasant taste or smell. The acrid smell of burning rubber filled the air. The acrid taste of spoiled milk made him gag.
bitter	Use when describing a sharp, unpleasant taste or figuratively to describe feelings of anger or disappointment. The coffee was too bitter to drink. She felt a bitter resentment towards her sibling.
sharp	Use when describing something with a fine edge or point, or figuratively to describe keen, quick, or intense feelings or remarks. The knife had a very sharp blade. His sharp wit made him a popular figure at parties.
caustic	Use when describing a substance that can burn or corrode, or figuratively to describe very harsh and critical remarks. The scientist handled the caustic chemical with care. Her caustic comments about his work left him feeling hurt.
sardonic	Use when describing a grimly mocking or cynical manner or tone. He gave her a sardonic smile, knowing she wouldn't believe his lie. Her sardonic laugh echoed through the room, mocking everyone's optimism.

Examples of usage

an acrid response to the criticism
an acrid exchange of words between the two politicians

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

Many acrid substances are related to chemical reactions, such as the burning of rubber or certain plant compounds.
In environmental science, acrid smoke is a byproduct of wildfires, impacting air quality and health.
Acridity often signals the presence of potentially harmful compounds in the air, warning of danger.

Literature

In literary contexts, the word often describes harsh emotional environments or settings, conveying discomfort.
Notable authors use acrid imagery to create intense atmospheres in works like 'The Road' by Cormac McCarthy.
It serves as a metaphor for bitterness in personal relationships or societal issues.

Culinary Arts

Certain spices can be described as acrid, especially when burned, affecting the flavor profile of dishes.
In cooking, the balance between acrid and sweet or savory flavors can elevate a meal’s overall taste experience.
Acrid flavors are often considered unwanted when tasting wine or other beverages.

Psychology

Strong, acrid smells can evoke powerful memories or emotions, linking sensory perception to personal experiences.
Research in psychology shows that unpleasant odors can lead to negative mood changes or stress responses.
The human brain is wired to react significantly to acrid scents, often associating them with danger or toxicity.

Origin of 'acrid'

Main points about word origin

The word originated from the Latin 'acer,' which means 'sharp' or 'sour.'
It was first recorded in English in the early 17th century, describing strong tastes and smells.
Etymological relatives include 'acidity' and 'acidic,' which emphasize sharpness.

The word 'acrid' originated from the Latin word 'acridus', meaning pungent or sharp. It has been used in English since the early 17th century to describe things with a strong, unpleasant taste or smell. Over time, its usage has expanded to include describing tones or manners that are bitter and sharp.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,231, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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20228 entanglement
20229 requester
20230 statistician
20231 acrid
20232 labile
20233 binocular
20234 escarpment
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