acrimony

[ ak-ruh-moh-nee ]

noun

1. sharpness, harshness, or bitterness of nature, speech, disposition, etc.:

   The speaker attacked him with great acrimony.

   Synonyms: spitefulness, bitterness, spite, asperity, animosity

   Antonyms: politeness, kindness, civility, goodwill

acrimony

/ ˈækrɪmənɪ /

noun

1. bitterness or sharpness of manner, speech, temper, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of acrimony¹

First recorded in 1535–45; from Latin ācrimōnia, from ācri-, stem of ācer “sharp, sour” + -mōnia -mony

Word History and Origins

Origin of acrimony¹

C16: from Latin ācrimōnia, from ācer sharp, sour

Example Sentences

But for all the personal acrimony between them, they've also advanced each other's political ambitions.

From Salon

As Nelson demonstrates via "Daytime Revolution," the couple’s efforts to preach unity in the face of that era’s deep acrimony is a lesson that we could sorely use today.

From Salon

Recent meetings have often been characterised by acrimony and deep division.

From BBC

By the end of their original run, the Oasis universe was riddled with drama and acrimony.

From Salon

Some also questioned what the real motivation for the potential reunion after so many years of acrimony might be.

From BBC

Related Words

• animosity
• antagonism
• belligerence
• bitterness
• ill feeling
• ill will
• rancor