Quippy

Quippy is an adjective used to describe remarks, dialogue, or writing that is clever, witty, and snappy. A quippy line tends to be short, memorable, and often delivers a playful or brisk twist. The term is typically applied to speech or prose that aims to entertain or impress with wit rather than to convey deep information.

Quippy derives from the noun quip, meaning a witty or taunting remark. The noun dates from the early 17th century. The exact origin of quip is unclear, but the adjective quippy has been in use since the early modern period to describe that brisk, witty style formed from quips.

In contemporary writing and media, quippy is broadly positive when the humor lands, but it can be criticized as flippant or contrived if it replaces substance. It is often used to describe dialogue in comedies or social-media captions that rely on sharp one-liners. The connotation can shift with tone and context; a quippy character may be portrayed as quick-witted, sardonic, or endearingly lighthearted.

Related terms include witty, snappy, and pithy, along with droll or clever. Quippy contrasts with more earnest, verbose, or serious styles of communication. In editing or writing guidance, authors are often advised to balance quips with clarity and substance to avoid overuse or distraction from the message.