Consider two common forms of chemical warfare. The first is the concealed malice hidden in sarcasm. Sarcasm comes from the Greek word that means "to tear flesh." It's a form of speech intended to hurt others through mocking ridicule or searing humor (a poisoned reminder like, "I won't hold my breath until you . . .).
Teasing is another form of chemical warfare in which the poison is disguised as humor. What is meant to smell funny is designed to inflict deadly pain and embarrassment. This chemical is used in childhood on playgrounds and at school to attach the weak. Children's radar for another's weaknesses and personality faults is keen. Adulthood has perfected the use of this cruel chemical to the point where it even defies being called warfare. When challenged after an attack of tease gas, the aggressor says, "I was only kidding. What's the matter, can't you take a joke?"
Today, sign a chemical weapons treaty with yourself, pledging never to use sarcasm, ridicule or teasing as weapons against others.
— Edward Hays, The Old Hermit's Almanac