rhizoverbBeta
DictionarywitticismClever remark
noun

witticism

WIT-ih-siz-um/ˈwɪtɪsɪzəm/

A clever, amusing remark or expression.

The witticism about resisting temptation amuses through its unexpected contradiction.

A short paradoxical written remark about resisting temptation.
Etymology
wittiEnglishcleverly amusing
+cismEnglishnoun-forming ending

From “witty,” Dryden fashioned a noun for a remark displaying clever amusement, using “criticism” as his model. The word names a particular expression of wit rather than the general quality.

In context

University of Vermont15:36
the more things change or the more it changes the more it stays the same a a little witticism that was uttered in the context of fashion
Sustainability, Complex Systems, and the Greeks

More examples

  • The essay sparkles with witticisms about everyday life.
  • He eases the tension with a well-timed witticism.
  • She writes down her grandfather's best witticisms.

Forms

witticism · witticisms

witty adjective — Clever and amusing in expression.

wit noun — The ability to express clever humor.

Similar words

quip
Usually a short, pointed remark, often made spontaneously.
joke
May be a whole story rather than one clever remark.