Vitriolize

Vitriolize is a verb that describes the act of treating something with vitriol, which is a term that historically referred to sulfuric acid. In modern usage, however, vitriolize often takes on a figurative meaning, signifying the application of harsh, bitter, or abusive criticism or language. When someone vitriolizes another person or a situation, they are expressing intense anger, malice, or contempt in their words or actions. This can manifest as verbal attacks, scathing reviews, or deeply negative public commentary. The term implies a deliberate and often aggressive intent to harm or demean.

The origin of the word stems from the alchemical practice of producing what was known as "green vitriol" or ferrous sulfate. The substance was often associated with a corrosive quality, which likely contributed to its later metaphorical extension to describe poisonous or acrid speech. While the literal chemical meaning is less common today, the figurative sense of vitriolize remains prevalent in discussions of social interactions, political discourse, and personal conflicts where intense negativity is expressed.