Witticism: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when referring to a clever or witty remark, often made in a sophisticated manner.

• Her witticism brought a smile to everyone's face at the dinner party.
• He is known for his sharp witticisms in literary circles.

Use when referring to a short, witty remark, often made impromptu.

• He responded to her question with a quick quip that made everyone chuckle.
• Their conversation was filled with clever quips back and forth.

Use when referring to something said or done for amusement or as a joke.

• His remarks were made in jest and not meant to be taken seriously.
• She always lightens the mood with a good jest or two.

Use when referring to a humorous play on words, exploiting different meanings or similar sounds.

• His favorite type of joke is a clever pun.
• Her pun on the word 'current' made everyone laugh.

Use when referring to playful and friendly exchanges, often involving teasing.

• Their banter always lightens up the mood during meetings.
• The friendly banter between the host and the guests was entertaining.

A witticism is a clever or funny remark that shows quick and inventive verbal humor. It can be used in casual conversations or in situations where light-hearted, intelligent humor is appreciated.

• During the meeting, her witticism about the project's timelines made everyone laugh.
• He brightened the dinner party with several witticisms.

An epigram is a brief, interesting, memorable, and sometimes surprising or satirical statement. It is often used in literature or formal speaking and tends to encapsulate a single thought or observation, often humorously or wisely.

• Oscar Wilde's epigrams are still quoted widely for their cleverness and insight.
• Some of the most memorable lines from the play are witty epigrams.

A bon mot is a French term meaning 'good word.' It refers to a witty remark or a clever comment, often used in sophisticated or formal settings. It's typically perceived as high-brow humor.

• The author is known for her bon mots that delight readers with their wit and charm.
• His acceptance speech was filled with clever bon mots.

A facetious remark is a humorous statement made with a lack of seriousness, often inappropriately. It can sometimes be seen as flippant or disrespectful, so it's best used in casual, informal settings among friends who understand the humor.

• 'Sure, let's just work 24 hours a day,' he said with a facetious remark when asked to speed up the project.
• Her facetious remarks during the serious discussion were not well-received.