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

Accomplish any tasks that are genuinely necessary, but leave room for pleasantries and small talk too. —Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 18 Feb. 2026

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

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