What does quotable mean?
Quotable describes words, remarks, ideas, or people that are worth quoting because they are memorable, striking, or especially suitable for repeated use. The adjective commonly appears in journalism, political writing, and cultural criticism, where it identifies a phrase or observation with the potential to circulate widely. Saying that something is quotable does not necessarily mean that it is profound; it may simply be concise, vivid, witty, or forceful. In its less common noun use, a quotable is a person or thing whose words or qualities are noteworthy enough to be repeated by others. The word is related to quotation and comes from the same literary idea as quoting: selecting a saying or passage for its significance, expressiveness, or memorable phrasing.
Worthy or suitable of being quoted, especially because it is memorable, noteworthy, or striking.
"The article ended with a particularly quotable observation."
Often used of a phrase, remark, line, or idea that is concise and effective enough to be repeated.
A person or thing that is noteworthy enough to be quoted.
"Several quotables from the debate were quoted in the morning papers."
This noun use is less common than the adjective and often refers to a person whose sayings or actions attract repeated quotation.
The plural is used for people or things that are quotable, especially people whose remarks are frequently quoted.
"The magazine profiles the colorful quotables of the political scene."
A quotable line is designed to be remembered: the best ones are so neatly phrased that they seem to belong in a headline, a speech, or a book of quotations.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does quotable come from?
Quotable was formed in English by adding the suffix -able to the verb quote, indicating that something is suitable or worthy of being quoted. Quote comes from Latin quotare, meaning “to cite” or “to quote,” and ultimately reflects a broader language of citing what someone else has said. English later developed several related forms, including quotation, quoted, and quoter, from the same root.
Related word forms
How quotable is actually used
As an adjective, quotable is common in journalism, politics, and literary commentary. It often suggests that a remark is concise, striking, and suitable for repetition, rather than merely important. The noun is less common and usually refers to a person whose words are frequently quoted.