Wisecrack

A wisecrack is a clever and often sarcastic or witty remark, usually made in jest or as a quick response. It's intended to be humorous, though it can sometimes be perceived as rude or inappropriate depending on the context and delivery. Wisecracks often rely on wordplay, irony, or unexpected twists. The effectiveness of a wisecrack hinges on its timing, brevity, and the personality of the speaker. It often serves to lighten the mood, deflect an awkward situation, or express an opinion in a humorous manner. Skilled individuals use wisecracks to maintain a certain image and persona, frequently entertaining others in the process. They can be a social tool or just an innocent observation.

Wisecrack meaning with examples

• During the budget meeting, as the finance director announced a further cut, a colleague let out a wisecrack, 'Well, at least the coffee machine is still safe, right?' This lightened the tension considerably, though the director didn't seem amused, and they quickly moved onto other subjects.
• After stumbling over the first line of his speech, the nervous groom quipped with a wisecrack, 'Well, that was the easy part!' This broke the ice, drawing laughter and helping him regain his composure as the audience appreciated his humor.
• When the weather forecast predicted torrential rain on the day of their outdoor concert, the band's lead singer, in a wisecrack to the media, replied, 'Looks like we're going to need extra waterproof guitars!' This showed that the band had a good sense of humor.
• Examining a piece of abstract art in a gallery, a visitor, with a wisecrack and a grin, commented, 'I think my toddler could do better!' This remark was well received by the others present, some were with agreement, but the gallery owner was less than impressed