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sadistic

[suh-dis-tik, sey-, sa-] / səˈdɪs tɪk, seɪ-, sæ- /
ADJECTIVE
cruel, perverted
Synonyms
Antonyms


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Kennedy has a real talent for taking reactionary, often sadistic ideas and reframing them to sound compassionate and therapeutic.

From Salon May 18, 2026

Kennedy has a real talent for taking reactionary, often sadistic ideas and reframing them to sound compassionate and therapeutic.

From Salon May 18, 2026

There’s an element of sadistic, John Simonesque glee to his attacks on the personal appearances of actors.

From Los Angeles Times May 12, 2026

He said a whole-life tariff could only be given in sadistic or sexual cases, those involving abduction or a high level of premeditation.

From BBC Feb. 27, 2026

Their sadistic giggling irritated me almost as much as the nickname.

From "We Are the Ants" by Shaun David Hutchinson




Vocabulary lists containing sadistic


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