Zing Imitates a Sound and Then Means Liveliness
Zing is a sharp humming sound. It also means energy or a sharp remark.
Zing is a sharp high humming sound, and by extension liveliness or a cutting remark. It is imitative and American, first recorded around 1911, and it belongs to a small family of *z-* words that English uses for fast sharp movement: *zip*, *zoom*, *zap*, *zing* and *whizz*. The letter is rare in English, which may be why it reads as energetic. *Zinger* for a witty retort followed in the 1950s.
- A sharp sound. *The zing of a wire.*
- Liveliness. *A bit of zing.*
- A sharp remark. *A zinger.*
- To move fast. *Zinging past.*
- American — about 1911. *The origin.*
Word forms
| Form | Word | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Noun | zing | Zing. |
| Verb | zing | Zinging. |
| Noun | zinger | A zinger. |
| Adjective | zingy | Zingy. |
| Related | zip | To zip. |
- The arrow zinged past.Sound.
- The sauce needs some zing.Flavour.
- He delivered a zinger.Retort.
The z- speed family
- Zip — fast movement, and the fastener
- Zoom — rapid approach or departure
- Zap — a sudden strike
- Zing — a sharp humming rush
- Z is rare in English, which makes these words feel energetic
Imitative, American English, recorded from about 1911.
What is a zinger?
A sharp witty retort, from the idea of a remark that flies in fast and stings.
Why do z- words suggest speed?
They are imitative of sharp fast sounds, and the rarity of z in English makes them feel energetic.