noun

persiflage

PUR-si-flahzh/ˈpɜːrsɪflɑːʒ/

Light, teasing conversation.

Their friendly persiflage keeps the mood light during lunch.

Light, playful, or joking conversation shown as reciprocal banter over a tiny biscuit: two successive moments show mock-grand presentation, an amused teasing reply, and smiling mock wounded dignity.

Etymology

perLatinthrough

+siflFrenchto whistle, hiss

+ageFrenchaction or activity

The verb for “whistle” or “hiss” underlies a French verb meaning “to banter.” Persiflage names that bantering activity: light, teasing conversation or a playfully unserious treatment of a subject.

More examples

She enjoys a little persiflage with her coworkers.
The meeting begins with persiflage before turning to serious business.
Beneath their persiflage, the two old friends share a deep affection.

Similar words

banter: Banter is the more everyday term for friendly, teasing exchanges.
repartee: Repartee emphasizes quick, witty replies rather than general playful conversation.