zinger

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/ˈzɪŋɡər/
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A striking, often humorous remark, and by extension any lively or impressive item, as well as a fast, powerful baseball pitch.
Practice using zinger in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • The chef’s signature dish is a culinary zinger.
  • The umpire called a zinger a foul ball.
  • Her performance was a zinger, full of energy.
  • She was known for delivering a devastating zinger.
  • She delivered a perfect zinger during the debate.

Similar words

bon mot
hit
screwball
retort
rocket
sally
sensation
pepper
highlight
cannon

Meanings

Witty, pointed remark

noun
everyday
informal
A sharp, funny comment that catches the listener off guard.

Examples

  • His speech was full of zingers that left the audience laughing.
  • She delivered a perfect zinger during the debate.
  • The comedian’s set included several sharp zingers.
  • I couldn't resist replying with a quick zinger.
  • The article's headline was a real zinger.
  • Even the boss appreciated his clever zinger.

Similar words

quip
jibe
retort
one-liner
gag
witticism
bon mot
sally

Lively, impressive item

noun
entertainment
neutral
Anything that stands out for its energy, originality, or striking impact.

Examples

  • The new album is a zinger, every track grabs attention.
  • That advertisement is a total zinger, it really stands out.
  • The chef’s signature dish is a culinary zinger.
  • Her performance was a zinger, full of energy.
  • The campaign turned out to be a marketing zinger.
  • The fireworks display was a real zinger.

Similar words

hit
showstopper
standout
sensation
blockbuster
masterpiece
highlight
crowd-pleaser

Hard, fast baseball pitch or hit

noun
sports
technical
A fast, powerful baseball pitch that hits the batter, or a hard-hit ball that travels quickly.

Examples

  • The pitcher threw a fast zinger that struck the batter.
  • He hit a zinger that sent the ball over the fence.
  • The crowd roared when the zinger whizzed by.
  • That was a classic zinger, a hard line drive.
  • The umpire called a zinger a foul ball.
  • She was known for delivering a devastating zinger.

Similar words

fastball
heater
screwball
rocket
blazer
cannon
pepper
fireball

Etymology

From zing + -er, modeled on the verb meaning to make a sharp, lively sound; first recorded in the 1970s.

FAQ

What does zinger mean in everyday speech?

It refers to a sharp, witty remark that catches people off guard.

Can zinger be used as a verb?

No, zinger is only used as a noun; using it as a verb is a common error.

Is a zinger always funny?

It is usually humorous, but it can also be cutting or sarcastic rather than purely funny.

What is a zinger in baseball?

A fast, hard pitch that hits the batter or a hard-hit ball that travels quickly.

How did the word zinger originate?

It comes from the verb zing plus the suffix -er, first appearing in the 1970s as slang for a sharp comment.

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