pleasantry

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Pleasantry is never good on serious points, because it always regards subjects in that point of view in which it is not the purpose to consider them.

From A Philosophical Dictionary, Volume 10 (of 10) From "The Works of Voltaire - A Contemporary Version" by Fran?ois-Marie Arouet (AKA Voltaire)

Such kinds of Pleasantry are very unfair and disingenuous in Works of Criticism, in which the greatest Masters, both Ancient and Modern, have always appeared with a serious and instructive Air.

From The Spectator, Volume 2. by Addison, Joseph

In defence of a Friend it is but justice, but here comes Sir Peter to spoil our Pleasantry.

From School for Scandal by Sheridan, Richard Brinsley

A Mind which is gratified this Way is adapted to Humour and Pleasantry, and formed for an unconcerned Character in the World; and, like my self, to be a mere Spectator.

From The Spectator, Volume 2. by Addison, Joseph

Pleasantry was with them little more than a vehicle of instruction; the object was not to entertain, but to enforce and illustrate their moral sentiments.

From History of English Humour, Vol. 1 With an Introduction upon Ancient Humour by L'Estrange, Alfred Guy Kingan