The etymology of the word comes from the Greek region, Laconia ruled by the Spartans. This warrior race was known for its sparse living conditions and sparser use of language. Here are some examples:
When Phillip II of Macedon invaded Greece, he send a message to the Spartans saying if he won this war, they would all be slaves forever. The Spartan reply was " If "
At the battle of Thermopylae, a Persian commander told the 300 Spartans that the Persian arrows would be so numerous they would block out the sun. The Spartan reply was "So much the better; we'll fight in the shade."
Other laconic comments throughout history:
At a dinner party a woman sat next to President "Silent Cal" Coolidge. She told the president she had bet a friend that she could get him to say at least three words. His reply was "You lose."
Irish playwright, Samuel Beckett taught school for a short time. At one point, the headmaster reminded him that the students were the cream of Ulster. His reply was "Yes, I know, rich and thick." - as ever BB
"Since brevity is the soul of wit, and tediousness to limbs and outward flourishes, I will be brief. Your son is mad." Wm. Shakespeare, Hamlet Act II, Scene 2
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