noun
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quip
kwip
Quip (noun) means a short, clever, often slightly cutting remark made quickly in conversation. Example: “She deflected the question with a quip about her age.”
noun
1
A short, clever, often slightly cutting remark made quickly in conversation.
"She deflected the question with a quip about her age."
"His acceptance speech was three minutes of quips and no thanks."
verb
1
To make such a remark.
""At least the coffee's still free," he quipped."
"She quipped that the meeting had outlived several of its action points."
How to use quip
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA quick, funny, slightly sharp thing to say.
When to use it
Neutral; common in journalism and fiction.
Common pairings
a dry quip
fire off a quip
quipped that
ready with a quip
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She deflected the question with a _____ about her age.
Etymology
Of uncertain origin; often linked to Latin quippe 'indeed, to be sure', used sarcastically. The connection is plausible but not settled.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for quip
See all rhymes for quip →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a quip and a joke?
A joke is a standalone piece of humour that can be repeated to anyone; a quip is tied to the moment, responding to what was just said. Quips are short, spontaneous and often faintly barbed, whereas a joke can be long and entirely good-natured.
Is "quipped" a good word to use in dialogue writing?
Use it sparingly. It tells the reader the line was witty instead of letting the line be witty, and editors flag overuse of said-substitutes. Reserve it for remarks that genuinely land as quick and clever.
What is the difference between a quip and a retort?
A retort is a sharp reply, witty or not, and is always answering someone. A quip is defined by its wit and can be offered unprompted, as a light aside on a situation.
What is the meaning of quip?
"quip" (noun) means a short, clever, often slightly cutting remark made quickly in conversation.
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