The word “laconic” refers to someone whose speaking style is terse, short, and to the point. As a word, its origin goes back to ancient Greece, where it refers to the speaking style of the Lacedemonian people — more commonly known by the name Spartans. Spartans were well-known for speaking volumes by saying just a few words. The Spartan king Leonidas, in particular, seemed to have a gift for witty, short retorts. For instance, when the Emperor of Persia, whose army dwarfed the Spartan contingent, demanded that the Spartans surrender their weapons, Leonidas replied only “Molon labe”, which translates to “come and take them.”
– A few thoughts from your friend Saxo