The word 'zinger' is a modern American English coinage from the mid-20th century. It is formed from the imitative verb 'zing', which evokes the notion of something moving with speed and a buzzing or whistling sound, combined with the agentive suffix '-er'. This construction metaphorically applies the qualities of swift, sharp motion and sound to a verbal remark, implying it is delivered quickly and has a penetrating, striking effect. The term's evolution perfectly captures the sense of a witty retort that "hits its target" with sudden, impactful force.

The word is a simplex formation from the 20th century, derived from the verb 'zing' (meaning to move swiftly or make a sharp, high-pitched sound) combined with the agent noun suffix '-er'. 'Zing' itself is an onomatopoeic word imitating a sharp, high-pitched sound.