Banter

Banter (noun / UK Slang)

(Also heard as: Bants, Good banter, Bantering)

Definition:

Playful, witty, teasing back-and-forth between friends. Being told you have good banter is a compliment.

Where It Comes From:

The word dates back to the 1600s, when it meant light-hearted teasing, though its exact origin is unknown. In the 2010s it became a huge part of British pub, football and group chat culture, and it is often shortened to “bants” online.

How People Actually Use It:

Used between mates who tease each other, whether it is about football, haircuts or terrible taste in music. “Just banter” is also sometimes used to excuse unkind comments, so people tend to say the line is where someone stops laughing. Tone and friendship matter, and it works best when everyone is in on the joke.

Examples in the Wild:

• “The banter in that group chat never stops.”

  Meaning: The friends keep joking and teasing each other constantly.

• “Just a bit of banter, mate.”

  Meaning: I was only joking, although not everyone finds it funny.

• “Our new manager has good banter.”

  Meaning: He is funny and easy to get on with.

Similar Slang:

Chirp, Roast, Wind-up, Ribbing, Taking the mick

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