What do you think of the word 'banter'?

Question

I hate it, more than any other word in the English language, gives me the shivers.

In my university it is practically the slogan of the student union. Someone spray-painted it on the wall of the laundry.

In my university it is practically the slogan of the student union. Someone spray-painted it on the wall of the laundry. I don't like it.
Some people argue about the meaning so I'll say to me banter means, lively conversation but particularly gossip.

In my university it is practically the slogan of the student union. Someone spray-painted it on the wall of the laundry. I don't like it.
Some people argue about the meaning so I'll say to me banter means, lively conversation but particularly gossip.

Answer 1

Starred-i bloody hate it too-what a stupid word to describe being bitchy or sarky-i prefer plain speaking myself!!xx

Answer 2

It's only talk
Babble, burble, banter, bicker bicker bicker
Brouhaha, boulderdash, ballyhoo
Its only talk

Sorry, a little elephant talk there. I can relate, though. I really loathe the word "portion". There is no rational reason I can provide, I just do.

Answer 3

I suppose its the linguistic equivalent to slapping someone round the face with a raw fish. Never thought about it before your Q, realise I never use it in conversation. You have a good point.

Answer 4

Reminds me of the Chartered Accountancy sketch from Monty Python.
I want to be A LION TAMER!
*enough of this gay banter*

Answer 5

Just the word? or the meaning, too?

I have never used it,,does not flow off the tongue easily...

Answer 6

I quite like it, it means to have a lively, lighthearted conversation and we should have more of them.

Answer 7

I agree. It's a horrible word! It just sounds awful.

Answer 8

Why? It just means having converstion. Don't report me for asking why, either. I had to.

Answer 9

i do not see what use it is.there are better descriptive words for talking /conversation etc.

Answer 10

if i told you i don't know what that means are you going to make fun of me!!!!! ♥☺{in my sarcastic voice}

edit: it doesn't mean having conversation; it means to make fun of!!!☺