epigrams
|ep-i-grams|
🇺🇸
/ˈɛpɪɡræmz/
🇬🇧
/ˈepɪɡræmz/
(epigram)
short, witty written remark
Etymology
'epigram' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'epigramma' (ἐπίγραμμα), where 'epi-' meant 'upon' and 'graphein' meant 'to write'.
'epigram' changed from the Greek word 'epigramma' into Latin as 'epigramma', then passed through Medieval/Latin and Old French usages before becoming the Middle English 'epigram' and finally the modern English 'epigram'.
Initially, it meant 'an inscription' (something written upon), but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a short, witty poem or saying'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a short, clever, or witty saying or remark, often with a satirical twist
His speeches were full of epigrams that kept the audience laughing.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/17 13:56