wisecrack

Glib verbal jab

A wisecrack is a clever, flippant remark—often sarcastic or mocking: He couldn't resist a wisecrack about her cooking.

The term suggests quick wit deployed for humor rather than substance.

To wisecrack is to make such remarks: She wisecracks her way through meetings.

A wisecracker is someone who does this habitually.

quip

one-liner

Brief standalone joke

repartee · bon mot · witticism · jest · sally · riposte · gag · punchline · barb · jibe

teasing

banter

Playful, teasing exchange

  • ribbingAffectionate verbal teasing
  • joshTease good-naturedly
  • razzPlayful verbal teasing

rib · needle · tease · rag · kid · roast · jesting · playful · good-natured · lighthearted

spontaneous

ad-lib

Unscripted speech or remark

unrehearsed · extemporaneous · unscripted · quick-witted · improvisational · snap · instinctive · timing · natural · effortless

sarcasm

snark

Cutting, mocking commentary

acerbic · mordant · cutting · biting · dry · deadpan · cynical · mocking · sneering · barbed

mockery

taunt

Insulting provocation

  • jeerVocal expression of scorn
  • gibeScornful teasing remark
  • sneerScornful expression

ridicule · derision · scorn · heckle · lampoon · send-up · satirical · scoff · derisive · scathing

Categories
Opposites
sincerity and tone

wisecrackstraight talk

Honest, direct communication

plain truth · true confession · unvarnished truth · soul-baring

gravity of discourse

wisecrackeulogy

Tribute for the dead

lament · formal address · measured response · formal declaration · dirge

purpose

wisecrackreasoned argument

Position backed by logic

in-depth analysis · briefing · treatise

Family

wisecracker, wisecracks, wisecracking, wisecracked, wisecrackers

Familiarity
Top 100,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Positive · Everyday, not technical · Rated G