Mordancy

Mordancy (n.) is a quality of being sharply critical, sarcastic, or biting in manner or style. It often manifests as a witty or cynical commentary that can cut through pretension or expose uncomfortable truths. It implies a keen intellect and an ability to use language to sting, provoke thought, and sometimes, to wound. The effectiveness of Mordancy often hinges on the precision of its expression and the unexpectedness of its barbs. While sometimes comedic, the underlying tone can be harsh, even cruel, revealing a jaded perspective on the subject matter. The origin of the word lies in the now rarely used word 'mordant', literally meaning 'biting', with its origins rooted in the French word 'mordre', which means 'to bite'. This highlights the piercing and often painful nature associated with the quality.

Mordancy meaning with examples

• The political satirist's Mordancy was legendary; his cartoons spared no one, skewering both sides of the aisle with equal ferocity. His sharp wit, while often applauded for its humor, sometimes landed him in hot water, testing the limits of free speech in a turbulent political climate. The public was divided, both relishing and recoiling at his often ruthless commentary.
• Her Mordancy was evident in her sharp rejoinders during the debate, instantly dismantling her opponent's arguments with a combination of sarcasm and insightful analysis. Although effective in conveying her views, her aggressive style occasionally alienated potential supporters, some finding her attacks unnecessary. Nevertheless, her reputation was built on her confrontational tactics.
• The novel's Mordancy was woven into the narrative, revealing the dark underbelly of society with a subtle but pervasive cynicism. The author masterfully crafted witty observations that exposed the hypocrisy of the wealthy. Its exploration of societal woes left a lasting impact on readers.
• Despite the potentially insensitive nature of his Mordancy, the comedian's observations resonated with audiences, especially in situations where they felt a sense of powerlessness. He offered both laughter and a sharp truth in his critiques of the system. The power of his routine was in the ability to make people think, even as it made them laugh, making people uncomfortable.