pleasantry

pleas·ant·ry

noun \-z^ən-trē\

plural pleas·ant·ries

Definition of PLEASANTRY

1

: a humorous act or remark : jest

2

: an agreeable playfulness in conversation : banter

3

: a polite social remark <exchanged pleasantries>

Examples of PLEASANTRY

1. <“how are you” is merely a social pleasantry>
2. <his after-dinner speeches usually include the sort of gentle pleasantry that raises a chuckle>

First Known Use of PLEASANTRY

1597

Related to PLEASANTRY

Synonyms: amenity, attention, courtesy, formality, gesture, civility, politeness

Related Words: honors; ceremony, observance, rite, ritual; decorum, etiquette, form, manners, mores, proprieties; addresses, devoirs, greetings, regards, respects; favor, grace, kindliness, kindness; protocol, rules

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