How to pronounce banter
Say it like BAN-ter. Banter has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (BAN).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce banter. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- BAN
- ter
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Banter pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- BANSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
- terKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "er" in butter.
American vs British pronunciation of banter
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: BAN-tuh.
What does banter mean?
- Sharp, good-humored, playful, typically spontaneous conversation.
- Good-humored bits of monologue and/or conversational prompts used in any of a wide range of occupations that must frequently interact with the public (for example, store clerks, salespersons, nurses).
- To engage in banter or playful conversation.
- To play or do something amusing.
- To tease (someone) mildly.
Where does banter come from?
1670s as verb, 1680s as noun.
Words that rhyme with banter
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of banter.
Questions about saying banter
How do you pronounce banter?
Say BAN-ter. The American pronunciation is /ˈbæntɚ/. In British English it is /ˈbæntə/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in banter?
Banter has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (BAN). Broken into parts: BAN · ter.
Is banter pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead. The British form is /ˈbæntə/ (BAN-tuh).