Literary notes about vitriolic (AI summary)
The word "vitriolic" functions dually in literature, bridging the gap between the literal destructive power of acid and the metaphorical force of sharply worded criticism. In technical and scientific contexts, it is used to designate corrosive substances with potent, dissolving qualities [1][2][3], while in narrative prose and dialogue it evokes the intensity of bitter, caustic language. Characters may be described as unleashing a vitriolic tongue or look that burns with scathing ire [4][5][6], and political or personal denunciations are rendered with a similarly corrosive edge [7][8]. This duality enriches the text, allowing "vitriolic" to simultaneously suggest both chemical lethality and the searing impact of harsh sentiment [9][10].
- To concentrate the Vitriolic Acid 176 7 .
— from Elements of the Theory and Practice of Chymistry, 5th ed. by Pierre Joseph Macquer - If the Vitriolic Acid contain much water, it is then called Spirit of Vitriol .
— from Elements of the Theory and Practice of Chymistry, 5th ed. by Pierre Joseph Macquer - The first chapter is concerned with the discovery of what its author called Vitriolic Acid Air , but which we now know as sulphur dioxide.
— from Joseph Priestley by T. E. (Thomas Edward) Thorpe - Even that place of security did not, however, save him from her vitriolic tongue.
— from Mam' Lyddy's Recognition1908 by Thomas Nelson Page - He dashed up on his horse, ordered the company in position, subjecting me all the while to vitriolic criticism.
— from The Bride of Mission San José: A Tale of Early California by John Augustine Cull - He could write, when he thought fit, with a vitriolic keenness of sarcasm.
— from Modern Leaders: Being a Series of Biographical Sketches by Justin McCarthy - Senator Corson was more infuriated by that bland preachment than he would have been by vitriolic insult.
— from All-Wool Morrison Time -- Today, Place -- the United States, Period of Action -- Twenty-four Hours by Holman Day - Trotzky assailed the Coalition Government with vitriolic passion.
— from Bolshevism: The Enemy of Political and Industrial Democracy by John Spargo - “You say that again, and I'll give you the worst——” “You will NOT!” snapped Marjorie, instantly vitriolic.
— from Penrod by Booth Tarkington - His sermon was a vitriolic arraignment, thinly disguised by Biblical nomenclature, of Inez Rodman.
— from Judith of the Godless Valley by Honoré Morrow
