# parting shot

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/parting-shot
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

An insult or barbed comment issued as the speaker departs or the conversation comes to an end.

## Examples

- He left with a rude parting shot.
- After they argued about the project, she walked out and delivered a sharp parting shot.
- As he exited the courtroom, the defendant offered a final, bitter parting shot that left the judge speechless.

## Origin

Believed to be a variation of Parthian shot, referring to a military maneuver in which Parthian troops retreating on horseback turned back to face the enemy and shot while retreating. (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.