What is described as harsh, cutting language or tone intended to ridicule?

The term that refers to harsh, cutting language or tone intended to ridicule is sarcasm. Sarcasm typically involves a form of verbal irony where someone says the opposite of what they mean, often with the intention of mocking or deriding the subject of their speech. This mode of expression relies heavily on vocal tone and context to convey the intended insult or critique, highlighting the speaker's disdain or disapproval.

While irony, satire, and pathos share some thematic elements with sarcasm, they serve different purposes or employ different methods. Irony denotes a contrast between expectations and reality, without necessarily intending to ridicule. Satire, on the other hand, is broader; it uses humor, exaggeration, and sometimes sarcasm to criticize social norms, politics, or morality, and may not always be harsh. Pathos relates to evoking emotion, particularly sympathy or pity, rather than ridicule. Thus, sarcasm is the specific term that encapsulates the sharpness and mocking intent implied in the question.