zing

American  

[zing] / zɪŋ /

noun

1. vitality, animation, or zest.

2. a quality or characteristic that excites the interest, enthusiasm, etc..

   a tourist town with lots of zing.

3. a sharp singing or whining noise, as of a bullet passing through the air.

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verb (used without object)

1. to move or proceed with a sharp singing or whining noise.

   The cars zinged down the highway.

2. to move or proceed with speed or vitality; zip.

verb (used with object)

1. to cause to move with or as with a sharp, singing or whining noise.

   The pitcher zinged a slider right over the plate.

2. Slang. to blame or criticize severely.

   City Hall always gets zinged when crime increases.

zing British  

/ zɪŋ /

noun

1. a short high-pitched buzzing sound, as of a bullet or vibrating string

2. vitality; zest

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verb

1. (intr) to make or move with or as if with a high-pitched buzzing sound

Etymology

Origin of zing

First recorded in 1910–15; imitative

Example Sentences

There’s not much comic zing in the idea that a handful of selfish families rule the world.

From Los Angeles Times

The truth of that sentence zings through me, zillions of times stronger than any shin pain.

From Literature

The finished dumpling — which can be enjoyed as a quick snack or meal — is deliciously pillowy and spicy with a hint of zing.

From Salon

It’s a salad that can sit in the fridge for days without losing its snap, yet it’s never inert: a forkful zings, a little sweet, a little tart, a little green, a little peppery.

From Salon

You can eat it on its own or as a topping to many of the other dishes if you want to add a little zing.

From Salon