'acerbic' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'acerbus,' where 'acer-' meant 'sharp' or 'bitter.'

'acerbus' transformed into the French word 'acerbe,' and eventually became the modern English word 'acerbic' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'sharp or bitter in taste,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'sharp and forthright in tone or manner.'