acrimonious
/ˌæk.ɹɪ.ˈməʊ̯.nɪ.əs/
Group 12Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Angry and bitter, typically of speech or a debate GRE
Example in Context
The acrimonious divorce proceedings, played out in the tabloid press, damaged both parties' reputations irreparably.
Synonyms
bitterhostilenasty
Etymology
A debate that is sharply bitter and angry.
- acer (Latin) — sharp
Memory Aid
😡Sounds like “acri-moanious”
When you hear the ACRI-MOANIOUS debate, you want to MOAN because it's so angrily bitter!
Visual Association
⚔️Two angry people hurling sharp words at each other like swords in a fierce battle.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “acrimonious” mean on the GRE?
acrimonious (adjective) means “Angry and bitter, typically of speech or a debate”. The acrimonious divorce proceedings, played out in the tabloid press, damaged both parties' reputations irreparably.
How to remember “acrimonious” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “acrimonious” sounds like “acri-moanious”. When you hear the ACRI-MOANIOUS debate, you want to MOAN because it's so angrily bitter!
What are synonyms for “acrimonious”?
Common synonyms: bitter, hostile, nasty.