Quip Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ˜„
Add to dictionary

quip

[kwษชp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

witty remark

A quip is a clever or witty remark, often made on the spur of the moment. It is a short, humorous statement that is usually spontaneous and off-the-cuff.

Synonyms

joke, pun, wisecrack.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
quip

A quip is a clever, witty remark often made spontaneously during a conversation. It's used to add humor or a light-hearted touch to a discussion.

  • When asked about his age, he made a quip about gaining wisdom instead of years.
  • She always had a quip ready to lighten the mood during meetings.
joke

A joke is a story or statement intended to make people laugh. It can be told in various situations, ranging from casual social gatherings to stand-up comedy performances.

  • He told a joke about a duck walking into a bar, and everyone burst out laughing.
  • During the party, his jokes kept everyone entertained.
pun

A pun is a form of wordplay that exploits multiple meanings of a term or uses similar-sounding words to create a humorous effect. It's often used in literary works, advertising, or casual conversation.

  • She made a pun using the word 'bark' to refer to both a dogโ€™s noise and a treeโ€™s covering.
  • His puns were always groan-worthy but still managed to get a laugh.
wisecrack

A wisecrack is a sardonic or sarcastic remark meant to be humorous. It often has a sharp or cutting tone and can sometimes be considered rude or inappropriate if not used carefully.

  • He made a wisecrack about the bossโ€™s new hairstyle, which made everyone chuckle but also raised some eyebrows.
  • Her wisecracks during the lecture were funny but occasionally disruptive.

Examples of usage

  • She always had a quip ready for any situation.
  • His quips always made everyone laugh.
Context #2 | Noun

quip toothbrush

In the context of a toothbrush, Quip is a brand known for its sleek design and effective cleaning technology. It is a popular choice for those looking for a stylish and efficient toothbrush.

Synonyms

oral care product, toothbrush brand.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
quip

This is a proper noun and brand name, referring specifically to the company that manufactures electric toothbrushes and other oral care products.

  • Quip offers a subscription service for its toothbrushes and replacement heads
  • I switched to Quip because I heard their toothbrushes are really convenient
toothbrush brand

This phrase is used to describe any brand that manufactures toothbrushes. It does not refer to a specific brand, just the general category.

  • I need to find a new toothbrush brand because the one I'm using isn't effective
  • There are so many toothbrush brands on the market today, it's hard to choose
oral care product

This term is generic and can be used to describe any product designed for maintaining dental hygiene, such as toothpaste, mouthwash, or dental floss.

  • It's important to have a good oral care product as part of your daily routine
  • When choosing an oral care product, make sure it addresses your specific dental needs

Examples of usage

  • She decided to try the Quip toothbrush after hearing good reviews.
  • The Quip toothbrush is known for its minimalist design.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Quips are often used in stand-up comedy routines to get quick laughs from the audience, making them a staple for comedians.
  • Characters in television shows, like Chandler from 'Friends', are known for their quips, often delivering witty lines that become memorable quotes.
  • In social media, quips are popular in memes, often used to convey humor or sarcasm in a single image or caption.

Literature

  • Many playwrights, such as Shakespeare, used quips and witty banter between characters to create humor and develop relationships.
  • In literary works, clever remarks serve to highlight character intelligence or social commentary, making the text engaging and thought-provoking.
  • Authors like Oscar Wilde are famous for their sharp quips, blending humor with deeper meanings in their writings.

Psychology

  • Making quips has been shown to enhance social bonding, as humor can strengthen relationships and create a sense of camaraderie.
  • Engaging in witty exchanges can boost mood and reduce stress, as laughter triggers the release of endorphins in the brain.
  • People who frequently use quips may be viewed as more charismatic, as clever humor often attracts attention and admiration.

Origin of 'quip'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'quip' comes from the Latin word 'quippe', meaning 'indeed' or 'forsooth' which reflects its playful nature.
  • In the late 16th century, 'quip' was also used to refer to a sharp reply or a taunt, showcasing its historical context as a form of banter.
  • By the 17th century, it had shifted to mean any clever or quick remark, solidifying its place in the English language.

The word 'quip' originated from the Middle English word 'quipp,' which meant a taunt or a gibe. Over time, it evolved to refer to a clever or witty remark. The use of 'quip' in English can be traced back to the 16th century, where it was commonly used in literary works and everyday conversations. Today, 'quip' is still widely used to describe a quick, clever, and amusing statement.


See also: quips.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,317 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.