What Does “Banter” Mean?
Confusing slang in
Banter
noun British slang
translates to
Plain English out
Playful teasing and joking between friends — the British art of friendly mockery.
Advertisement
The full meaning
Banter is good-natured witty back-and-forth teasing between friends. 'It's just banter' means the teasing is friendly. 'He's got good banter' means he is funny and quick.
Where “banter” comes from
From late 17th century English. Became particularly associated with British culture where friendly mockery without offence is a social skill. Bantz is the millennial shortening.
How it’s actually used
Central to British friendship. 'Banter' distinguishes friendly mockery from genuine criticism.
The lads were having proper banter all evening.
It's just banter, don't take it personally.
He's got no banter whatsoever.
Advertisement
For parents & teachers
Harmless in the right context. Worth knowing 'it's just banter' is sometimes used to excuse unkind remarks.
Related slang
Last reviewed: 2026-08-20