banter

American  

[ban-ter] / ˈbæn tər /

noun

1. an exchange of light, playful, teasing remarks; good-natured raillery.

   Synonyms:

   persiflage, pleasantry, badinage

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verb (used with object)

1. to address with banter; chaff.

   Synonyms:

   mock, deride, ridicule, twit, tease

verb (used without object)

1. to use banter.

banter British  

/ ˈbæntə /

verb

1. to speak to or tease lightly or jokingly

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noun

1. light, teasing, or joking language or repartee

Other Word Forms

• banterer noun
• banteringly adverb
• outbanter verb (used with object)
• unbantering adjective
• unbanteringly adverb

Etymology

Origin of banter

First recorded in 1660–70; origin uncertain

Example Sentences

They would also often meet for dinner, sometimes lavish meals, gossiping and bantering over dim sum, pizza or claypot rice.

From BBC

Mr Devaney's family said he was "a really nice person, so joyful, full of life and full of banter."

From BBC

Though their banter can be a bit banal, the AI podcasters’ confidence and research are now arguably better than most people’s.

From Los Angeles Times

"Johnny was great and enjoyed having a bit of banter with us too."

From BBC

It is known for its well-kept local ales, from Stroud Brewery and good bar banter.

From BBC

Related Words

• chitchat
• gossip
• repartee
• ribbing
• small talk