Parthian shot

American  

noun

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

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Parthian shot British  

noun

1. another term for parting shot

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Etymology

Origin of Parthian shot

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

Example Sentences

It’s his last one, his peace-out, his Parthian shot, his doch-an-dorrach.

From The Guardian • Jan. 12, 2016

It’s his last one, his peace-out, his Parthian shot, his doch-an-dorrach.

From The Guardian • Jan. 12, 2016

There is no answer to the old man's Parthian shot: "If you live."

From Time Magazine Archive

Leaving the room, the father fires a Parthian shot: "It's not good to be greedy," he says.

From Time Magazine Archive

“A Parthian shot, Jenny,” said Julius, as they gave her a homeward lift in the carriage. 

From The Three Brides by Yonge, Charlotte Mary