parting shot

noun

1. a threat, insult, condemnation, sarcastic retort, or the like, uttered upon leaving.

parting shot

noun

1. a hostile remark or gesture delivered while departing Also calledParthian shot

Word History and Origins

Origin of parting shot¹

First recorded in 1890–95; perhaps by folk etymology from Parthian shot

Idioms and Phrases

A final insult or last word in an argument, as in As she stalked out, Jane hurled as a parting shot , “ And I quit! ” This idiom apparently originated as a corruption of Parthian shot , referring to the practice of ancient Parthian warriors of turning back to shoot at their pursuers. [Late 1800s]

Example Sentences

But Morris declined to take a parting shot, instead expressing gratitude to Ailes for making him a rich man.

From The Daily Beast

A loud cheer arose from our decks: a parting shot was given her from our gun, and in two hours darkness hid her from our sight.

From Project Gutenberg

It was Mrs. Codling who, brave to the last, and woman-like, gave the parting shot.

From Project Gutenberg

With that as a parting shot, he returned to his seat, leaving the three boys wondering just who he might be.

From Project Gutenberg

And with that parting shot Paul went on his way to his own desk, leaving the office-boy greatly puzzled.

From Project Gutenberg

But why had that impossible young American ruined a pretty compliment by her parting shot?

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• comment
• explanation
• feedback
• interpretation
• justification
• key
• observation
• rebuttal
• remark
• report
• resolution
• response
• result
• return
• sign
• solution
• statement