witticism
(ˈwɪtɪsɪz(ə)m)
Also 7 wittycism.
[Coined by Dryden, f. witty a., after criticism.]
A piece of wit; a witty saying or remark; a smart joke. In earlier use often contemptuous (‘a mean attempt at wit’ J.), or applied esp. to a joke made at another's expense, a jeer, a witty sarcasm.
| 1677 Dryden State Innoc., Apol. Her. Poetry c 1 b, A mighty Wittycism, (if you will pardon a new word!) but there is some difference between a Laugher and a Critique. 1683 ― Vind. Dk. Guise 18 For the sake of a silly Witticism. 1683 E. Hooker Pref. Pordage's Mystic Div. 15 What shal wee..think of Cramp-words, or Criticisms, Jocs, or Witticisms, Railleries and Drolleries..? 1778 F. Burney Evelina xlix. (1779) II. 161 I had many witticisms to endure from the Branghtons. 1802 M. Edgeworth Moral T., Good Fr. Governess (1848) I. 286 Assailed..by a variety of..maternal witticisms upon his uncouth appearance. 1842 H. Rogers Ess. I. i. 22 The profane heartless witticisms of those with whom nothing is sacred. 1874 Burnand My Time xx, At this witticism, there was a burst of laughter. |
So witticize (ˈwɪtɪsaɪz) v. intr., to utter witticisms.
| 1773 Wesley Wks. (1872) X. 423 It lies therefore upon Mr. Hill to answer Mr. Sellon before he witticizes upon me. 1833 New Monthly Mag. XXXVIII. 489 The sketching and witticising talent which characterizes so many of our modern travellers. 1881 Dollar Instit. Mag. Dec. 1 While we warble or witticise. |