pleasantry

noun

pleas·​ant·​ry ˈple-zᵊn-trē How to pronounce pleasantry (audio)
plural pleasantries
Synonyms of pleasantrynext
1
: a humorous act or remark : jest
2
: an agreeable playfulness in conversation : banter
3
: a polite social remark
exchanged pleasantries

Examples of pleasantry in a Sentence

“how are you” is merely a social pleasantry his after-dinner speeches usually include the sort of gentle pleasantry that raises a chuckle
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While reporters were present, the two leaders only exchanged pleasantries. Michelle L. Price, Arkansas Online, 7 Feb. 2026 While where reporters were present, the two leaders only exchanged pleasantries. Michelle L. Price, Chicago Tribune, 6 Feb. 2026 Once onstage, Stallone traded a few pleasantries with the mayor, Melendrez and the crowd. René Guzman, San Antonio Express-News, 4 Feb. 2026 The Fire Dogs and Law Hogs were united as one before kickoff, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries. Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 1 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pleasantry

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pleasantry was in 1594

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pleasantry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pleasantry. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

pleasantry

noun
pleas·​ant·​ry ˈplez-ᵊn-trē How to pronounce pleasantry (audio)
plural pleasantries
1
: agreeable playfulness in conversation
2
a
: a humorous act or speech
b
: a light or casual polite remark
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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