asteism Definition
the use of polite, witty, and teasing remarks to mock or criticize someone.
Using asteism: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "asteism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Her asteisms were always well-received at parties.
Example
He used asteism to gently criticize his friend's fashion sense.
Example
The comedian's asteisms were a hit with the audience.
Phrases with asteism
Example
She made an asteism about his new haircut, causing everyone to laugh.
a competition in which participants try to outdo each other with their witty and teasing remarks
Example
The party turned into an asteism contest, with everyone trying to come up with the funniest remarks.
a situation where two or more people engage in a battle of wits using polite, witty, and teasing remarks
Example
Their conversation turned into an asteism war, with each person trying to outdo the other.
Origins of asteism
from Greek 'asteismos', meaning 'polite irony'
Summary: asteism in Brief
'Asteism' [as-tahy-zuh m] is the use of polite, witty, and teasing remarks to mock or criticize someone. It is often used in social situations like parties or conversations, and can be a way to gently criticize someone. Phrases like 'to make an asteism' and 'an asteism contest' describe different ways in which asteism can be used. 'Asteism' comes from the Greek word 'asteismos,' meaning 'polite irony.'
