pleasantry

noun

pleas·​ant·​ry ˈple-zᵊn-trē 

plural pleasantries

1

: a humorous act or remark : jest

2

: an agreeable playfulness in conversation : banter

3

: a polite social remark

exchanged pleasantries

Synonyms

• amenity
• attention
• civility
• courtesy
• formality
• gesture
• politeness

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

After exchanging pleasantries and a quick inquiry about his ex-wife’s new boyfriend, Coop’s boss Jack Bailey (Corbin Bernsen) reveals the real reason for their conversation. —Stephanie Wenger, People.com, 10 Apr. 2025

He’s also increased communication and exchanged pleasantries with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. —Lauren Irwin, The Hill, 17 Feb. 2025

According to court observers, the avatar managed only a few moments of speaking time, beginning with traditional courtroom pleasantries before the judges intervened. —Lars Daniel, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025

Demi Moore, in Giorgio Armani, exchanged pleasantries with Miles Teller. —Ryma Chikhoune, WWD, 2 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for pleasantry

• peasantry

Kids Definition

pleasantry

noun

pleas·​ant·​ry ˈplez-ᵊn-trē 

plural pleasantries

1

: agreeable playfulness in conversation

2

a

: a humorous act or speech

b

: a light or casual polite remark