raillery

[ rey-luh-ree ]

noun

, plural rail·ler·ies.

1. good-humored ridicule; banter.

   Synonyms: pleasantry, chaff, badinage

2. a bantering remark.

raillery

/ ˈreɪlərɪ /

noun

1. light-hearted satire or ridicule; banter
2. an example of this, esp a bantering remark

Word History and Origins

Origin of raillery¹

1645–55; < French raillerie, equivalent to Middle French raill ( er ) to rail ² + -erie -ery

Word History and Origins

Origin of raillery¹

C17: from French, from railler to tease, banter; see rail ²

Example Sentences

But to appreciate the scintillating wit and improvisational raillery of the Australian hausfrau with the wisteria wig and cat’s-eye glasses, it was necessary to be within striking distance of one of Dame Edna’s gladioli, which she would fire into the audience with the same missile-like precision of one of her devastatingly funny barbs.

From Los Angeles Times

Excitement instantly seized the whole party: a running fire of raillery and jests was proceeding when Sam returned.

From Literature

The first Shakespearean phrase I underlined during this period was “skirmish of wit,” about the raillery between Beatrice and Benedick, which inspired a lifelong expectation that romance must include snark.

From Washington Post

French’s evocation of place, a rural way of life and overall creepiness are superb, as is the dialogue, a festival of Irish raillery and repartee.

From Washington Post

The roguery and raillery are in place, and he has a pleasing way with a song, but his instincts for clowning undermine his suavity.

From Los Angeles Times