potshot

[pot-shot]

noun

1. a shot fired at game merely for food, with little regard to skill or the rules of sport.

2. a shot at an animal or person within easy range, as from ambush.

3. a casual or aimless shot.

4. a random or incidental criticism.

   to take a potshot at military spending in a speech on taxation.

verb (used without object)

potshot, potshotted, potshotting. 

1. to fire or aim potshots.

   critics potshotting at the administration.

Word History and Origins

Origin of potshot¹

First recorded in 1855–60; pot ¹ + shot ¹

Example Sentences

Winston’s election chances surge when he survives an assassination attempt—even though in this case it’s really a potshot taken by one of his disgruntled children.

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After touring a Pfizer vaccine plant in Michigan, Mr. Biden took potshots at his predecessor as the CEO stood nearby.

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A year ago, from the other side of the Dnipro River, they began sending drones, in addition to using bombs and artillery, to take potshots at civilians.

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Long may his critics - whoever and wherever they are - take potshots at him, because the put-downs make him rise up.

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Scull danced around for 12 rounds and frustrated Alvarez with potshots, as the Mexican superstar struggled to cut off the ring in a dull contest in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

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