Epigram

(ep'e-gram.) [FromGr. epigramma, an inscription.] Originally, an inscription written on the tombs, statues, temples, arches, ., of anc. Greece, in language at once brief, harmonious, and pointed. The Roman E. closely approached the modern idea ofE. as exemplified in the writings of Martial and Catullus. The modern E. may be defined as a short composition in verse-usually from 2 to 8 lines, - treating only of one thing, and terminating, by way of point or climax, with some lively, ingenious, and natural thought, whether serious or humorous. [s. 335]