one-liner

noun

one-lin·​er ˌwən-ˈlī-nər How to pronounce one-liner (audio)
Synonyms of one-linernext
1
: a very succinct joke or witticism
2
: a succinct or meaningful and especially accurate statement

Examples of one-liner in a Sentence

the senator deftly inserted some smart one-liners into an otherwise sober speech
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The one-liners, which Foxworthy began cracking in the late 1980s, helped propel the comedian to mainstream stardom in the 90s. Ralphie Aversa, USA Today, 6 June 2026 Some particularly outrageous one-liners about race snuck into the film’s final cut, although much of its dicier material comes off as weirdly effortful instead of provocative or reckless. Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 4 June 2026 The episode themes are also presented through confessionals featuring unfiltered one-liners, personal revelations and rapid-fire commentary. Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 1 June 2026 His vows to jump off the top of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium echoed the sentiments of every Florida fanatic from Key West to Pensacola, and Tuesday in the Panhandle, Sumrall once again dropped a one-liner that is sure to be music to the ears of Gator fans who were paying attention. Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for one-liner

Word History

First Known Use

1962, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of one-liner was in 1962

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Cite this Entry

“One-liner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/one-liner. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.

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