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Definition of potshot

potshot

/ˈpɑːt.ʃɑːt/
pot · shot
Plural:potshots
•
Past Simple:potshotted
•
Past Participle:potshotted
•
Present Participle:potshotting
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potshot Lexical Profile

potshot Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A random, opportunistic, or unfair verbal criticism directed at an easy target.

Example

"During the debate, the candidate took several cheap potshots at his opponent's past mistakes."

2

A shot fired casually, at random, or at an easy, stationary target with little skill or preparation.

Example

"The youths were caught taking potshots at empty tin cans along the wooden fence."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• verb

1

To fire casually or randomly at an easy target, or to direct opportunistic criticisms at someone.

Example

"Critics spent the entire afternoon potshotting at the committee's preliminary proposal."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for potshot

• Rhymes for potshot

• Nearby Words

potoroo
potpie
potpourri
potshot
potsticker
pottage
potted

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-19th century, the term originally referred to a hunter shooting at any easily reached animal simply to fill the cooking pot, rather than observing sporting rules.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Potshot. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/potshot
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