vitriol

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun (H2SO4) a highly corrosive acid made from sulfur dioxide; widely used in the chemical industry
noun abusive or venomous language used to express blame or censure or bitter deep-seated ill will
verb expose to the effects of vitriol or injure with vitriol

From Middle English vitriol, from Old French vitriol, from Medieval Latin vitriolum (“sulfuric acid”), from vitrum (“glass”).

“Vitriol Bob,” was the answer. — The Mysteries of London, v. 4/4, George W. M. (George William MacArthur) Reynolds
It was a case of vitriol throwing. — Complete Original Short Stories of Guy De Maupassant, Guy de Maupassant
'"Vitriol!"' he cried, 'not surely Vitriol, the great critic?' — The Talking Horse, and Other Tales, F. Anstey

oil of vitriol, sulfuric acid, sulphuric acid

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