zinger
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Meaning
A quick, witty, or pointed remark or retort.
Something that is surprising, shocking, or exciting.
Usage
The debate was full of prepared statements, but her spontaneous zinger drew the biggest laugh from the audience.
The article's final paragraph contained a real zinger that completely changed my perspective on the issue.
He's known for his sharp wit and always has a perfect zinger ready in any conversation.
Etymology
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.
Analysis
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.