Tartly

Tartly is an English adverb that describes action, speech, or behavior delivered in a sharp, biting, or sour manner. It most often refers to tone, indicating a response that is brisk, caustic, or irritated. A tartly expressed remark may carry sarcasm or impatience, while still being concise or witty. The term is less about the content of what is said and more about how it is said, with an edge that implies irritation or defensiveness.

Etymology and usage history are straightforward: tartly derives from the adjective tart, meaning sharp or sour, with the standard English adverbial suffix -ly. The combined form has been in use since the early modern period, and remains common in both narrative prose and dialogue to convey a pointed or brusque manner.

Usage notes: Tartly tends to appear in descriptive writing or direct speech rather than in highly formal contexts. It carries a mildly negative connotation, signaling that the speaker’s remark is intended to sting or provoke a reaction. It is often contrasted with softer descriptors such as gently or calmly, and with stronger terms like sarcastically or caustically.

See also: tart, tartness, caustic, acid, sharp, biting.

Examples:

- She answered tartly, never warming to the question.

- The critic spoke tartly of the film, noting its flaws with a terse, cutting wit.