Zinger
/ˈzɪŋ.ər/noun
A sharp, witty remark or a striking, surprising thing.
Did you know?The word was popularized in American English from the idea of something that “zings” or buzzes sharply, and its punchy sound helped it become perfect for one-liners and roast culture.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ǵʰey-
“to spring, move quickly, or be lively”
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*singwaną
“to sing, make a sharp sound”
Old English
English
singan
“to sing”
19th Century
English
zing
“a sharp buzzing sound; lively energy”
19th-20th Century
English
zinger
“something that zings; a sharp, striking remark”