An infamous use of the c-word is back in the headlines - earning Quote of the Year

Journalist Andrea Vance's line slamming the Government's pay equity U-turn - made Parliamentary history when Act's Brooke van Velden referenced it in the House.

Lines about 'spineless' MPs not sanctioning Israel, and feral cats killing not shagging native birds - scored second and third.

Massey journalism lecturer Charlotte Shipman says the public backed quotes that carried purpose.

She says the recurring theme was of standing up for something - and being quite provocative in the conversations.