According to Urban Dictionary, the word "snark" came about as a combination of "snide" and "remark." And if you know someone full of snark, you'll understand why they needed their own adjective. You might appreciate a snarky person's directness (as opposed to the underhandedness of sarcasm), but snide remarks like "Yes, I heard you, I'm just choosing to ignore you" or "You have a good memory for someone your age" hurt nonetheless. If you know someone who's constantly hurling cutting comments, it could be their horoscope sign that's to blame. Read on to hear who astrologers say are the six snarkiest zodiac signs, from somewhat cynical to severely sneering.
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6 | Gemini
iStockYou may be surprised to see the social butterflies of the zodiac on this list, but with all the talking Geminis do, they're bound to turn snarky once in a while. "Gemini loves to be the center of the conversation and steer its direction," says psychic, tarot card reader, and professional astrologerLeah Goldberg. "If someone else tries to get more verbal time in and changes the topic of discussion, a Gemini can quickly get annoyed and respond with impertinent remarks." Best to wait until they come up for air before interjecting.
5 | Sagittarius
ShutterstockSagittarius is the zodiac sign most likely to put their foot in their mouth, and sometimes, these faux pas come out snarkily. Oftentimes, it's because these intensely assertive people "speak their truth no matter the situation or circumstances," as Goldberg notes. They're quick to say what's on their mind without considering the effect.
However, Rachel Clare, an astrologer at Mysticsense, explains that their snide remarks don't run deeper like those of other signs. "Simply put, they are light-hearted and witty people but can take their sarcasm a little too far at times."
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4 | Capricorn
ShutterstockCapricorns are known for their extreme work ethic, which leads them to "judge themselves and others on success," explains Tara Bennet, astrologer, clairvoyant, and spiritual coach at Mediumchat. "If you step in their way, you'll definitely feel the sharp edge of their tongue." They can be so hyper-focused on success that they lose sight of how they're making others feel.
Outside of work, though, this sign might be using snark as a well-meaning defense mechanism. "Capricorns can find letting their guard down and showing vulnerability pretty challenging," notes Clare. "As a stoic earth sign, they want to be affectionate and loving with their close ones, but may find it easier to turn to sarcasm in these moments."
3 | Aquarius
Shutterstock"Aquarians are an illusive and interesting bunch, often seen as the zodiac's most esoteric people," says Clare. This makes them quite eccentric, getting stuck in their own little world. "Due to this, they can find understanding the thought processes of other people a real challenge," Clare explains. "In their heads, there is one way to go about things, so seeing people take a route they deem less effective can lead them to make snarky comments."
Likewise, Bennet adds that Aquarians will often resort to snarky retorts "to avoid emotional discussions or confrontation." A snide remark will usually derail a conversation so they don't have to get into their true feelings.
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2 | Virgo
Shutterstock/fizkesThe perfectionists of the zodiac have a hard time when things don't go according to their well-laid plans, and their response is often a snide comment. Because of their "hyper-critical nature," Tara Redfield, a professional astrologer at Another Day Greener Lifestyle & Astrology, says they will "easily find something to nit-pick and criticize in any situation." It could be about your mismatched outfit or how many times you said "um" during a presentation.
But all of the astrologers we consulted agreed them Virgos are rarely acting with malice. "This tendency usually comes from a good place in their heart, where they want to improve life for others, but their nagging and nitpicking can make them appear cynical and full of criticism," explains Golberg.
1 | Scorpio
iStockScorpios are also considered the most sarcastic sign, but they have a dark sense of humor that can cause a light-hearted joke to turn aggressive in no time. "Gifted at reading people, Scorpios can leave you in tears with just a few well-chosen words," says Bennet. Indeed, "as a mysterious, illusive water sign ruled by fiery, aggressive Mars, this sign is a deadly mix of all things snarky and abrasive," agrees Clare.
According to Goldberg, it's Scorpio's "gloomy outlook toward life" that causes them to be hostile and "have an antipathetic nature." They are extremely secretive themselves, which leads to being untrusting of others and always expecting the worst in people.
But if you're feeling stung by this sign, Redfield says they can dish it out and take it. "You can throw sarcasm and snark right back at them and they will probably admire you for it."