persiflage
UK: ˈpɜː.sɪ.flɑːʒ | US: ˈpɜːr.sə.flɑːʒ
n. light and slightly contemptuous mockery or banter
n. frivolous or flippant style of discussion
persiflage = per<through> + sif<whistle> + lage<noun suffix>
- per (Latin: "through") → Implies thoroughness or intensity.
- sif (French: "siffler," meaning "to whistle") → Suggests a light, mocking tone, akin to whistling dismissively.
- lage (French noun-forming suffix) → Indicates the result or action of the root.
Etymology Origin:
Derived from French persifler ("to whistle mockingly"), the word combines per- (emphasizing the action) with siffler ("whistle"). It entered English in the 18th century to describe witty, superficial ridicule—akin to "whistling past" serious topics. The suffix -age nominalizes the concept, framing it as a style of interaction.
Their conversation was filled with playful persiflage, avoiding any serious debate.
The diplomat deflected criticism with clever persiflage.
Her essays balance depth with occasional persiflage.
The audience appreciated the speaker’s persiflage, though it lacked substance.
Political persiflage often masks deeper tensions.