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 of pleasantry

• gesture
• courtesy

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

The Dallas Cowboys welcomed in the New Orleans Saints on Tuesday afternoon for a joint practice at their summer home in Southern California, but the pleasantries did not last long. — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 Aug. 2026

After some pleasantries, Lathan and Ahlman usually kick off the discussion, throwing out ideas that the rest of the hosts will debate. — Daniel Strauss, Vanity Fair, 10 Aug. 2026

Starting pitcher Tarik Skubal, acquired by the Dodgers in a trade with the Detroit Tigers on Saturday, was in the Dodgers’ dugout during the game, exchanging pleasantries with his new teammates and coaches. — Joaquin Ruiz, Los Angeles Times, 3 Aug. 2026

Etna is a sociable fellow, but his conversations with other animals never indulge in pleasantries. — Rachel Vorona Cote, The Atlantic, 30 July 2026

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