adj

pithy

PIH-thee

Pithy (adj) means Expressed briefly but with a lot of meaning or force. Example: “Her pithy reply summed up the whole argument in one sentence.”

adj

Expressed briefly but with a lot of meaning or force.

"Her pithy reply summed up the whole argument in one sentence."

"He's known for pithy one-liners rather than long speeches."

How to use pithy

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishShort and to the point, but packed with meaning — the opposite of rambling.

Common pairings

a pithy comment pithy quote pithy remark

Word forms

pithier comparative, pithiest superlative

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Her _____ reply summed up the whole argument in one sentence.

Etymology

From Middle English pithy, from pith ("core, essence") + -y.

Origin: Middle English

Rhymes for pithy

smithy

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Frequently asked questions

What does “pithy” mean?

The word “pithy” means expressed briefly but with a lot of meaning or force. In plain terms, short and to the point, but packed with meaning — the opposite of rambling.

How do you pronounce “pithy”?

“Pithy” is pronounced PIH-thee (/ˈpɪθi/ in IPA).

How do you use “pithy” in a sentence?

Here is “pithy” used in a sentence: “Her pithy reply summed up the whole argument in one sentence.”

What part of speech is “pithy”?

“Pithy” is an adjective.

Where does the word “pithy” come from?

The word “pithy” comes from Middle English. From Middle English pithy, from pith ("core, essence") + -y.