witticism

noun

wit·​ti·​cism ˈwi-tə-ˌsi-zəm How to pronounce witticism (audio)
: a cleverly witty and often biting or ironic remark

Examples of witticism in a Sentence

a collection of famous witticisms a drama critic who is best remembered for his biting witticisms
Recent Examples on the Web
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His frequent presence in lecture halls advanced him as one of America’s earliest stand-up comedians, and many of his wry witticisms, whether they were written or performed, remain part of the public conversation. Danny Heitman, Christian Science Monitor, 9 May 2025 Users gain access to exclusive trivia and witticisms in real time (synced with what’s happening in the movie). Brooks Barnes, New York Times, 2 May 2025 In a perfectly coifed wig, with a sly smile and endless witticisms, Snook takes on 26 different roles across the show's nearly two hour runtime. Shania Russell, EW.com, 28 Mar. 2025 Throughout, Snook hams for laughs, turning Wilde’s witticisms and epigrams into slapstick. Christian Lewis, Variety, 28 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for witticism

Word History

Etymology

witty + -cism (as in criticism)

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of witticism was in 1651

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Cite this Entry

“Witticism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/witticism. Accessed 24 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

witticism

noun
wit·​ti·​cism ˈwit-ə-ˌsiz-əm How to pronounce witticism (audio)
: a witty saying

More from Merriam-Webster on witticism

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