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Definition of zinger

zinger

/ˈzɪŋ.ər/
zing · er

Plural:zingers
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zinger Lexical Profile

zinger Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

North American A striking, witty, or caustic remark, retort, or punchline.

Example

"The comedian ended her monologue with a hilarious zinger that had the entire audience laughing."


2

North American A surprising, outstanding, or energetic person, thing, or turn of events, such as an unexpected question.

Example

"The professor threw a real zinger on the final exam that caught several students off guard."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for zinger

• Rhymes for zinger

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in mid-20th-century American English from the imitative verb 'zing', suggesting a sharp, whistling sound or sudden burst of energy.

Cite this Entry


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