Wisecrack Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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wisecrack
[ˈwaɪz.kræk ]
Definitions
in a conversation
A wisecrack is a clever or funny remark made in a conversation, often used to make people laugh or lighten the mood.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| wisecrack |
A clever and funny remark, often used in a sarcastic or slightly mocking way. Wisecracks are usually made quickly to comment on an immediate situation.
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| quip |
A short, witty remark that is clever and amusing. Quips are often spontaneous and can be used to lighten the mood.
|
| joke |
A story or statement intended to make people laugh. Jokes can be verbal, physical, or written and are often set up with a punchline.
|
| banter |
Light, playful, and friendly conversation where participants exchange teasing remarks. It’s mutual and intended to be fun without any serious offense.
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Examples of usage
- He always has a witty wisecrack ready in any conversation.
- Her wisecracks never fail to brighten up the atmosphere.
social setting
To wisecrack means to make clever or funny remarks in a social setting, usually to entertain others or provoke laughter.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| wisecrack |
Used when making a clever, sharp, often sarcastic or witty remark, usually meant to be funny but can sometimes be biting.
|
| joke |
Used for any humorous statement, story, or action meant to make people laugh.
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| banter |
Used for playful, friendly, and light-hearted conversation, often involving teasing or joking between friends.
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| quip |
Used for a short, witty remark, often spontaneously made in reply to something, and can occasionally have a sharp edge.
|
Examples of usage
- She loves to wisecrack during parties to keep everyone entertained.
- His ability to wisecrack effortlessly makes him popular among his friends.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Many stand-up comedians are known for their wisecracks, using rapid-fire humor to engage audiences.
- Iconic TV shows like 'The Simpsons' and 'Friends' feature characters who frequently deliver wisecracks to reflect their personalities.
- In movies, characters known for their quick wit often become fan favorites due to their sharp wisecracks that lighten the mood.
Psychology
- Wisecracking often indicates quick thinking and high levels of cognitive flexibility, allowing individuals to make connections rapidly.
- Humor, including wisecracks, can relieve stress and improve social bonding among peers, making it an important aspect of communication.
- Research shows that humor, including light teasing, can enhance creativity and problem-solving by encouraging out-of-the-box thinking.
Literature
- Writers like Oscar Wilde are known for their clever quips and wisecracks, often critiquing society through humor.
- In classic literature, characters who use wisecracks often represent wit and intelligence, showcasing their unique worldview.
- Many plays incorporate wisecracks to create comedic relief, allowing serious themes to be approached in a lighter manner.
Entertainment
- Improvisational comedy heavily relies on wisecracks to keep the humor spontaneous and engaging.
- Comedy films often utilize the rapid-fire delivery of wisecracks to maintain a fast-paced and entertaining narrative.
- Television sitcoms have used wisecracks for decades as a staple for character development and comedic timing.
Origin of 'wisecrack'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'wise,' meaning smart or clever, and 'crack,' an old slang term for making a joke or comment.
- It first appeared in American English in the early 20th century, showcasing the playful nature of comedy at that time.
- The word has evolved to encapsulate a mix of humor and intelligence, often used in playful banter.
The term 'wisecrack' originated in the early 20th century, combining 'wise' (showing good judgment or intelligence) and 'crack' (a sharp or witty remark). It has been used to describe humorous or clever comments in social interactions ever since.