Robert Christgau Words of the Day

Gnos·tic adj. 1. gnostic Of, relating to, or possessing intellectual or spiritual knowledge. 2. Of or relating to Gnosticism. n.A believer in Gnosticism.

ri·poste n. 1. Sports. A quick thrust given after parrying an opponent's lunge in fencing. 2. A retaliatory action, maneuver, or retort. intr.v. ri·post·ed, ri·post·ing, ri·postes 1. To make a return thrust. 2. To retort quickly. (dictionary.reference.com)

Amy Grant Heart in Motion [A&M, 1991]

Xian Xover queen: "What's the difference between a PMS'ing woman and a bulldog? Lipstick! See, only a woman can tell that joke." Don't be so sure, lady. And note Hits's gnostic riposte: "What do you get when you cross an atheist with a dyslexic? Somebody who doesn't believe in dogs!" C (www.robertchristgau.com)