The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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repartee

noun

/ˌrɛpɑːˈtiː/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of repartee

A witty or clever exchange of remarks or banter in a conversation or debate.
"The comedian's quick repartee had the audience in stitches."

Detailed meaning of repartee

It is often characterized by quick, clever responses and a playful or humorous tone. Repartee can take many forms, from clever one-liners and puns to more elaborate wordplay and puns. It requires a high level of verbal skill and a good understanding of language and context. In a social setting, repartee can add sparkle to a conversation and make it more enjoyable. But in a formal setting, it can also be a way of showing intelligence, wit and eloquence. Repartee is often used in literature, movies and theater to add humor and to showcase the characters' intelligence and wit.

Example sentences containing repartee

1. Their dinner party was filled with lively repartee and laughter.
2. The comedians engaged in hilarious repartee on stage.
3. His quick repartee left the audience in stitches.
4. The political debate lacked the usual repartee we expect.
5. Their repartee displayed their deep friendship.
6. She always had a comeback in her repartee.

History and etymology of repartee

The noun 'repartee' has its origins in French and traces its etymology to the early 17th century. It stems from the French word 'repartir,' which means 'to retort' or 'to reply promptly.' The 're-' prefix denotes a response or reply, and 'partir' means 'to depart' or 'to go.' Over time, 'repartir' came to signify the quick and clever exchange of remarks or retorts in conversation. When it entered the English language, 'repartee' retained this sense of witty and rapid verbal exchanges, often involving clever comebacks and banter, making it a term synonymous with sharp and humorous repartee in discussions or debates.

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Further usage examples of repartee

1. The witty repartee at the conference kept attendees engaged.
2. Their repartee made the long car ride enjoyable.
3. The repartee between the characters added humor to the play.
4. His repartee with the interviewer showcased his wit.
5. The repartee between the siblings was entertaining.
6. The repartee in the courtroom was intense.
7. The repartee between the rivals was legendary.
8. Their repartee often turned into friendly banter.
9. She appreciated his clever repartee.
10. The repartee in the office made the workday more fun.
11. Their repartee during the game was spirited.
12. His repartee with the audience members was charming.
13. The repartee in the café was the highlight of her day.
14. The repartee between the anchors kept the news show engaging.
15. The repartee at the family reunion was heartwarming.
16. His repartee was unmatched in the comedy scene.
17. The repartee between the detectives added depth to the crime show.
18. Their repartee showcased their chemistry on stage.
19. The witty repartee in their text messages always made her smile.

Suffix -ee, GRE 14 (Graduate Record Examination), Discourse and Conveyance, Comparison and Contrast, Variety and Diversity, Enjoyment and Indulgence, Innovation and Inception, Conversation and Expression

badinage,banter,persiflage,raillery,rejoinder,retort,riposte,witticism,wordplay

pleasantry