raillery
UK: ˈreɪləri | US: ˈreɪləri
n. good-humored ridicule or teasing; banter
raillery = rail<to mock> + ery<noun suffix denoting action or practice>
- rail (from Old French railler, meaning "to mock or jest")
- ery (a suffix forming nouns indicating a practice or behavior, from Latin -arius)
Etymology Origin:
The word raillery entered English in the 17th century from French raillerie, derived from railler ("to mock"). The root rail reflects playful teasing, while the suffix -ery generalizes it into a noun describing the act itself. The term retains its lighthearted connotation, distinguishing it from harsher forms of ridicule.
The dinner party was filled with lively raillery and laughter.
His raillery was so witty that no one took offense.
She responded to his teasing with good-natured raillery.
The comedian’s raillery kept the audience entertained.
Their friendship thrived on mutual raillery and shared humor.