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Dictionary definition of acrid

Referring to a sharp, pungent, and often irritating odor, taste, or quality that is characterized by its harshness and bitterness.
"The acrid smell of burning rubber filled the air after the car skidded to a halt."

Detailed meaning of acrid

Acrid odors or flavors can be overwhelming and unpleasant to the senses, often causing discomfort or irritation. This term is frequently used to describe the acrid smoke produced by burning certain materials, such as rubber or chemicals, which can cause respiratory distress and eye irritation. In a broader sense, "acrid" can also be applied metaphorically to describe harsh or bitter remarks, criticism, or situations that evoke strong negative emotions. Overall, "acrid" conveys a sense of sharp and biting unpleasantness, whether related to odors, tastes, or emotional experiences, and suggests an intense and often undesirable sensory or emotional impact.

Example sentences of acrid

1. As we approached the factory, an acrid smell filled the air.
2. His criticism had an acrid edge that left a lasting impression.
3. The kitchen was filled with the acrid scent of burnt toast.
4. The acrid taste of disappointment soured her mood.
5. In the crowded subway, an acrid odor lingered.
6. Their acrid exchange of words disrupted the meeting.

History and etymology of acrid

The adjective 'acrid' has its roots in the Latin word 'acris,' which means 'sharp' or 'sour.' This Latin term captures the essence of 'acrid,' as it describes a sharp, pungent, and often harsh quality, whether it be in odor, taste, or general character. The etymology of 'acrid' emphasizes its association with things that possess a distinct and bitter sharpness, leaving an impression of irritation on the senses. It reflects the idea that an acrid smell or taste can be quite biting, much like the sharpness conveyed by its linguistic origins in Latin.

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Further usage examples of acrid

1. The acrid smoke from the bonfire irritated our eyes.
2. The acrid bitterness of the coffee was hard to ignore.
3. An acrid tang lingered in the humid summer air.
4. The acrid sarcasm in her voice cut through the tension.
5. The acrid stench of garbage wafted from the dumpster.
6. The acrid taste of regret tainted their reunion.
7. As the chemical mixed, an acrid odor filled the room.
8. The acrid atmosphere in the courtroom was palpable.
9. An acrid aftertaste lingered from their heated argument.
10. He winced at the acrid bitterness of the medicine.
11. The acrid notes in his music conveyed deep emotions.
12. The acrid words they exchanged left wounds that wouldn't heal.
13. The acrid fumes from the car's exhaust were concerning.
14. An acrid tension hung in the air as they faced off.
15. She coughed from the acrid taste of the medicine, wishing it had been flavored.
16. The room was filled with acrid smoke, making it difficult to breathe or see.
17. As the onions caramelized in the pan, an acrid scent wafted through the kitchen.
18. The acrid fumes from the chemical spill forced the evacuation of nearby residents.
19. The detective noted the acrid smell of gunpowder at the crime scene.
20. After the fire was extinguished, the acrid odor lingered in the house for days.
21. The acrid taste of the unripe fruit made her lips pucker.
22. The farmer wore a mask to protect himself from the acrid pesticides he was spraying on the crops.
23. The acrid comments he made during the argument left everyone feeling tense.
24. The air was heavy with the acrid smell of burnt leaves in the autumn.
25. The cleaner had a very strong, acrid smell, so she made sure to open all the windows while using it.