Synonyms for

Banter

Verb / ˈbæntɜ: / Another word for banter — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The playful and friendly exchange of teasing remarks and jokes.

Synonyms & similar words

josh jolly backchat kid chaff giveandtake raillery tease joke ribbing kidding taunt ridicule mockery chaff quip wisecrack badinage repartee pleasantry raillery facetiousness humorousness merriment jocularity levity fun

Synonyms by register

Formal

jesting quipping raillery wit

Informal

chatter banter joshing ribbing teasing

Literary

persiflage wit-combat lighthearted repartee

Antonyms

seriousness solemnity gravity earnestness disagreement argument quarrel

Common collocations

  • playful banter
  • friendly banter
  • witty banter
  • light banter
  • banter back and forth
  • banter with someone
  • banter about something

Word family

noun banter
verb banter

Usage note

Banter refers to good-humored, playful conversation. It is generally informal and implies a friendly exchange, not serious argument.

Example sentences

  1. The siblings engaged in playful banter during their car ride.
  2. The comedians' banter had the audience laughing out loud.
  3. The coworkers enjoyed a bit of banter during their lunch break.
  4. The banter between the coach and players helped ease the tension of the game.
  5. The banter between the two friends was always good-natured.

Quotes

  • I love the banter with good friends, the silly jokes, the laughter that comes from deep in my being.
  • I like to use banter as a way of breaking the ice, making a tough crowd laugh, or making myself more comfortable in an uncomfortable situation.
  • I think banter is important for keeping the mood light on set.

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