skit

The word 'skit' entered English in the early 18th century, likely derived from the now-obsolete verb 'skit', meaning "to leap or move lightly and rapidly," which itself came from Old Norse 'skjóta' meaning "to shoot." This etymological connection suggests a conceptual link between quick, darting movement and the brief, sharp, and often satirical nature of the performance. The sense evolved from the idea of a quick, darting action or a caper to specifically denote a short, humorous theatrical piece. Thus, the modern meaning of a light, satirical sketch retains the essence of something brief and sharply pointed, much like its Scandinavian root implied.

The word is a simplex loanword. Its core form 'skit' was borrowed directly into English.