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.
Awards shows for comedians are often glorified roasts with lots of zingers and one-liners. Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 24 July 2026 The Beale Street-sampling trunk rattler is bright-eyed and fulgent, full of Kell’s catchy ass one-liners that stick because of her unique drawl. Olivier Lafontant, Pitchfork, 16 July 2026 Estelle Harris played Estelle Costanza, the loud and quick-witted mom to George and wife to Frank, who was always full of hilarious one-liners. Keith Langston, PEOPLE, 16 July 2026 Creators online have been known to break down old episodes, give their take on characters or repeat one-liners only fans would know. Bianca Harris, USA Today, 15 July 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“One-liner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/one-liner. Accessed 31 Jul. 2026.

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