What does it mean if someone is described as mordant?

The term "mordant" refers to a style of speaking or writing that is sharply critical or cutting in tone. When someone is described as mordant, it often implies a level of cynicism or biting humor that can come across as disrespectful or harsh. This quality in communication can be playful, but it tends to highlight a critical perspective, which can offend or undermine the feelings of others, thus aligning closely with disrespectfulness.

While "witty" might seem like a potentially fitting option due to the cleverness often associated with mordant remark, the primary connotation leans more toward the negative edge of criticism, making "disrespectful" the most accurate description of the term in this context.