Snarky Meaning and Definition
Snarky
Pronunciation
(Not applicable)
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
A snarky person or thing is one that is intentionally and annoyingly critical, sarcastic, or disagreeable.
Examples
1. “The snarky comment from the coworker left me feeling frustrated.”
2. “The comedian’s snarky humor had the audience in stitches.”
Synonyms
1. Sassy
2. Sarcastic
3. Catty
Antonyms
1. Friendliness
2. Kindness
3. Diplomacy
Etymology
The word “Snarky” is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century, likely as an informal extension of the word “snark,” which referred to a type of sarcastic or nagging criticism.
Usage Notes
Snarky can be used to describe both people and things, such as a snarky remark or a snarky article.
It is often used in informal contexts, such as in social media or casual conversations.
Cultural References
Snarky has appeared in various forms of popular culture, including TV shows like “The Office” and “Parks and Recreation,” as well as in music and stand-up comedy.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Dishing out snark” means to share or spread gossip or rumors.
2. “Getting snarked” means to receive criticism or scorn.
Collocations
1. “Take my snark with a grain of salt”
2. “I’m not trying to be snarky, just honest”
Frequency of Use
Snarky has become increasingly popular in informal language use over the past few decades, particularly among younger generations.
Common Misspellings
1. Snarkie
2. Snarkyly
Additional Information
Snarky individuals often use their wit and sarcasm to deflect from their own insecurities or to gain attention. However, excessive snarkiness can be off-putting and create negative relationships. In contrast, a snarky sense of humor can be a refreshing way to break the ice and add humor to serious situations.
It’s also worth noting that snarky can be used as a form of self-protection, as people may use snarky comments to conceal their true feelings or to avoid vulnerability. However, this can also lead to a culture of detachment and cynicism.