one-liner

[wuhn-lahy-ner]

noun

1. a brief joke or amusing remark.

one-liner

noun

1. informal,  a short joke or witty remark or riposte

Word History and Origins

Origin of one-liner¹

1965–70, one line + -er ¹

Example Sentences

While the character in the movie had memorable one-liners about “the sweet relief of death” and how “hope is an illusion,” in the games these blue Lumas are more helpful merchants of life.

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Political observers caution against reading too much into a salty one-liner.

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The film, peppered with witty one-liners and iconic scenes, follows the teen's attempts to placate her family while chasing her dream of getting scouted.

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Otherwise, Anderson holds her own, cooing her one-liners with the kittenish candor of Marilyn Monroe.

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The prize has been criticised in some quarters for its tendency to always favour one-liners, while others have noted its ability to shine a light on newer comics.

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Related Words

• gag 
• joke 
• wisecrack 
• witticism 
• zinger