Banter
/ˈbæntər/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe playful and teasing exchange of remarks.
/ˈbæntər/
Light, playful conversation.
The siblings enjoyed some good-natured banter.
💡 Simply: Friendly teasing and joking.
More Examples
The comedians traded witty banter throughout the show.
How It's Used
"The two friends engaged in some friendly banter."
"Their conversation was filled with lighthearted banter."
To exchange light, playful remarks.
/ˈbæntər/
To engage in banter.
The two colleagues bantered about the latest office gossip.
💡 Simply: To joke and tease playfully.
More Examples
The children bantered merrily during the car ride.
How It's Used
"They bantered playfully about their weekend plans."
Originated in the early 19th century, possibly from a dialectal variant of 'bandy' (to exchange blows or words). It evolved to describe light, playful conversation.
Early uses often implied a more boisterous, less friendly exchange of words than the modern understanding.
Memory tip
Think of 'bandying' words back and forth – friendly fighting with words.
Word Origin
"To exchange blows or words"