persiflage
1
9.9
- noun
- /ˌpərsəˈfläzh/
- Posted by: persiflage December 21, 2009 9:35 PM
Examples
-
Yet the persiflage of Weber and his romantic style of practicing neurology is vicious and hostile.
Academic text (2009) -
The friends engaged in playful persiflage, teasing each other about their weekend plans.
-
Your persiflage does not amuse.
-
Is this a time for airy persiflage?
-
Posted by: persiflage December 21, 2009 9:34 PM
Blog text (34) -
They treated Avram like all commanders, with affectionate persiflage, but mostly forgot he was there.
Fiction book (2001) -
During dinner, their persiflage kept the atmosphere light and fun.
-
Her witty persiflage at the party made everyone laugh and feel relaxed.
Synonyms
23
6.0
Friendly or funny remarks to make conversation pleasant
21
4.2
A playful remark meant to make people laugh
20
1.7
Light, joking words said to make people laugh
6
4.4
A friendly joke that tries to make someone laugh without hurting them
2
8.2
Teasing or insulting someone, often in a friendly way
1
3.5
Friendly joking talk where people tease each other
1
2.8
Light joking talk that makes people laugh and feel welcome
1
9.9
Light playful talk that people use to make each other laugh
1
8.8
Light teasing that is friendly and not meant to hurt
1
4.2
Playful friendly talk that makes people laugh without hurting anyone
A quick, funny talk where people tease each other playfully
Light joking talk between people to make each other laugh
How Teasing
Surface Forms
Etymology
Persiflage comes from the French verb persifler, linked to siffler which means 'to whistle'. Think of a quick, playful whistle that gently makes fun, so persiflage means 'light teasing' or 'playful banter'.