Langimage
English

bitingly

|bit-ing-ly|

C1

/ˈbaɪtɪŋli/

(biting)

sharp or cutting

Base Form
biting
Etymology
Etymology Information

'bitingly' originates from the word 'biting', which comes from the Old English 'bītan', meaning 'to cut or wound with the teeth'.

Historical Evolution

'bītan' transformed into the Middle English word 'biten', and eventually became the modern English word 'bite', from which 'biting' and subsequently 'bitingly' are derived.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to cut or wound with the teeth', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'sharp or cutting in manner'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

in a manner that is sharp or cutting, often used to describe criticism or wit.

She spoke bitingly about the flaws in the plan.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/04/21 10:09