Scathing criticism (7)

I believe the answer is:

vitriol

(Other definitions for vitriol that I've seen before include "Abusive language - sulphuric acid" , "Sulphuric acid; malicious criticism" , "Sulphuric acid or savage criticism" , "Strong criticism" , "Kind of acid or savage criticism" .)

I've seen this clue in the LA Times.

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