vitriol
nounUK /ˈvɪtriəl/
US /ˈvɪtriəl/
Very mean and angry words that hurt people's feelings.
The argument turned ugly when he started shouting vitriol at his old friend.
SYNONYMS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A strong acid, especially sulfuric acid, used in industry.
The workers handled the vitriol with heavy gloves and goggles.
3. A sulfate of a metal, such as copper sulfate.
Blue vitriol is another name for copper sulfate.
4. Harsh, bitter criticism in writing or speech.
The review was pure vitriol from start to finish.