from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Pleasantry \Pleas"ant*ry\, n.; pl. {Pleasantries}. [F.
plaisanterie. See {Pleasant}.]
That which denotes or promotes pleasure or good humor;
cheerfulness; gayety; merriment; especially, an agreeable
playfulness in conversation; a jocose or humorous remark;
badinage.
[1913 Webster]
The grave abound in pleasantries, the dull in repartees
and points of wit. --Addison.
[1913 Webster]
The keen observation and ironical pleasantry of a
finished man of the world. --Macaulay.
[1913 Webster]