Parthian shot

noun

1. a sharp, telling remark, act, gesture, etc., made in departing.

Parthian shot

noun

1. another term for parting shot

Word History and Origins

Origin of Parthian shot¹

First recorded in 1900–05; so called from the ancient Parthian cavalry's habit of shooting arrows rearward at the enemy while in real or feigned flight

Word History and Origins

Origin of Parthian shot¹

alluding to the custom of Parthian archers who shot their arrows backwards while retreating