palaver

/ˈpæləvər/

Definitions

1. noun

long and often unnecessary conversation, typically about unimportant matters

“The politician’s staff was engaged in a lengthy palaver with the press about the latest scandal.”

2. noun

a deceitful or insincere conversation, typically in order to deceive or manipulate someone

“The salesman tried to engage the customer in a palaver, promising unrealistic benefits for the product.”

3. verb

to talk or engage in conversation in an insincere or deceitful manner

“The politician was accused of palaver-ing with the opposition, trying to gain their support for the bill.”

Synonyms

  • chat
  • conversation
  • talk

Antonyms

  • reticence
  • silence