Parthian shot

American  

noun

1. a sharp, telling remark, act, gesture, etc., made in departing.

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Parthian shot British  

noun

1. another term for parting shot

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Etymology

Origin of Parthian shot

First recorded in 1900–05; so called from the ancient Parthian cavalry's habit of shooting arrows rearward at the enemy while in real or feigned flight

Example Sentences

It’s his last one, his peace-out, his Parthian shot, his doch-an-dorrach.

From The Guardian • Jan. 12, 2016

It’s his last one, his peace-out, his Parthian shot, his doch-an-dorrach.

From The Guardian • Jan. 12, 2016

Leaving the room, the father fires a Parthian shot: "It's not good to be greedy," he says.

From Time Magazine Archive

There is no answer to the old man's Parthian shot: "If you live."

From Time Magazine Archive

With which Parthian shot, delivered with spirit, Miss Theodosia turned her back and Elly Precious' back to the intruder.

From Miss Theodosia's Heartstrings by Donnell, Annie Hamilton