witticism

[ wit-uh-siz-uhm ]

noun

1. a witty remark or sentence.

   Synonyms: wisecrack, sally, quip, jest, joke

witticism

/ ˈwɪtɪˌsɪzəm /

noun

1. a clever or witty remark

Word History and Origins

Origin of witticism¹

1645–55; derivative of witty, modeled on criticism

Word History and Origins

Origin of witticism¹

C17: from witty ; coined by Dryden (1677) by analogy with criticism

Example Sentences

He was known and loved for his short witticisms and hoped to be remembered for his sense of humor and for being a cybernaut news-bringer and an encourager of others.

From Washington Blade

He was also the victim of a particularly odious witticism while living here.

From Project Gutenberg

Enchanted at what he thought a witticism, he cut short further dry talk.

From Project Gutenberg

The use of the prescribed address "ma'mselle" was evidently regarded as a witticism, for shouts of laughter filled the place.

From Project Gutenberg

Even every witty tale and mere witticism teaches something useful.

From Project Gutenberg

It was a more or less pointless witticism, but it had a humorous quotable flavor, and it made Evans mad.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• gibe
• wisecrack