banter

[ ban-ter ]

noun

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

   Synonyms: persiflage, pleasantry, badinage

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

/ ˈbæntə /

verb

1. to speak to or tease lightly or jokingly

noun

1. light, teasing, or joking language or repartee

Derived Forms

• ˈbanterer, noun

Other Words From

• banter·er noun
• banter·ing·ly adverb
• outbanter verb (used with object)
• un·banter·ing adjective
• un·banter·ing·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of banter¹

First recorded in 1660–70; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of banter¹

C17: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

So, like, mistakes: Bono stumbled over some of his banter in the introductions, and he wanted to keep that in.

From Los Angeles Times

Springfield lights incense as the friends banter casually.

From Los Angeles Times

The former First Minister will be joined by crime author Val McDermid for a night entitled "Books & Banter" on 22 March at the city's King's Theatre.

From BBC

Maybe “Buzz and Banter,” or “Fountain Flow.”

From Los Angeles Times

Verse said his banter with offensive linemen “starts making them frantic.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• taunt