Emily Dickinson Lexicon

SAR'CASM, n. [L. sarcasmus; Gr. σαρκασμος, from σαρκαζω, to deride or sneer at, primarily to flay or pluck off the skin.]

A keen reproachful expression; a satirical remark or expression, uttered with some degree of scorn or contempt; a taunt; a gibe. Of this we have an example in the remark of the Jews respecting Christ, on the cross, “He save others, himself he can not save.”