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wisecrack

noun

/ˈwaɪzˌkræk/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of wisecrack

A clever or witty remark or comment made with a humorous intent.
"Jenny's wisecrack about the boss's fashion sense caused a ripple of laughter in the office."

Detailed meaning of wisecrack

It is characterized by its quickness and sharpness, often catching others off guard with its unexpectedness. A wisecrack is typically delivered in a casual or informal setting, such as during a conversation or a lighthearted exchange among friends. Its purpose is to evoke laughter or amusement by employing clever wordplay, irony, sarcasm, or a combination of these elements. Wisecracks are known for their ability to lighten the mood, add levity to a situation, or provide a humorous perspective on a topic. They showcase the speaker's wit, intelligence, and ability to think on their feet, making them a valuable tool in social interactions or comedic performances.

Example sentences containing wisecrack

1. He couldn't resist making a wisecrack about the teacher's bad joke.
2. Her wisecrack at the meeting had everyone bursting into laughter.
3. The comedian's wisecrack about marriage had the audience in stitches.
4. Sarah's wisecrack caught me off guard and left me chuckling.
5. Jack always has a wisecrack ready for any situation.
6. The wisecrack he made about his own clumsiness lightened the mood in the room.

History and etymology of wisecrack

The noun 'wisecrack' finds its linguistic origins in the combination of two words: 'wise' and 'crack.' The word 'wise' originally stems from the Old English word 'wīs,' which meant 'knowledgeable' or 'intelligent.' On the other hand, 'crack' is derived from the Old English word 'cracian,' meaning 'to resound' or 'to make a sharp sound.' Over time, 'wise' evolved to signify wisdom and cleverness, while 'crack' came to refer to a sharp or sudden sound. Thus, 'wisecrack' evolved to represent a clever or witty remark, capturing the essence of intelligence and humor combined in a sharp verbal expression.

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Further usage examples of wisecrack

1. Despite the tense atmosphere, Mark managed to inject a wisecrack to ease the tension.
2. I couldn't help but roll my eyes at his constant wisecracks.
3. The comedian's wisecrack about technology had everyone nodding in agreement.
4. John's wisecrack about the traffic jam brought a smile to my face.
5. The wisecrack he made about his own cooking skills had us all laughing hysterically.
6. Even in the face of adversity, she always had a wisecrack to lighten the mood.
7. The wisecrack he made about the politician's scandal was both clever and cutting.
8. Her wisecrack about the rainy weather was met with laughter from the group.
9. Despite their serious discussion, they couldn't help but exchange wisecracks.
10. The comedian's quick wisecrack had the crowd roaring with laughter.
11. His wisecrack about the restaurant's food made us all burst into laughter.
12. Sally's wisecrack about her friend's fashion choice had everyone giggling.
13. Even during stressful situations, he managed to come up with a wisecrack to ease the tension.
14. His wisecrack during the meeting lightened the mood.
15. She always has a wisecrack ready for any situation.
16. His wisecrack at the party had everyone laughing.
17. The wisecrack he made caught everyone off guard.
18. I appreciate a good wisecrack to brighten the day.
19. Her wisecrack was the highlight of the conversation.
20. He couldn't resist making a wisecrack about the weather.
21. A well-timed wisecrack can break the tension.
22. His wisecrack added humor to the dull presentation.
23. She delivered the perfect wisecrack at the right moment.
24. Sometimes, a simple wisecrack can say it all.