scathing etymology

Etymology:

• Origin: Old Norse skatha ("harm, injury")
• Path: Old Norse skatha > Middle English scathe > Modern English scathing

Meaning:

• Harshly critical; expressing contempt or disapproval

Origin and Usage:

The word "scathing" derives from the Old Norse term "skatha," meaning "harm" or "injury." It entered Middle English as "scathe," retaining its negative connotation. Over time, it evolved into "scathing," which specifically denotes harsh criticism or disapproval.

In modern usage, "scathing" is often used to describe written or spoken language that is highly critical and intended to express contempt for or damage the reputation of the target of the criticism. It implies a level of intensity and severity that goes beyond mere disagreement or constructive feedback.

Examples of scathing criticism include:

• "The reviewer's scathing attack on the author's latest novel left no stone unturned."
• "The politician's scathing remarks about his opponent cast serious doubt on their credibility."
• "The editor's scathing feedback on the manuscript left the aspiring writer devastated."

scathing relate terms

• scathe

  Etymology The word scathe comes from the Old Norse word skaði meaning injury har

• unscathed

  Etymology Latin unscathus unscratched uninjured Meaning Unscathed means unharme

• scathing

  Etymology Origin Old Norse skatha harm injury Path Old Norse skatha Middle Eng

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