Badiner

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A light, playful piece of music typically featuring lively tempo and joyful melodies
2. A short, amusing musical interlude often used in classical compositions that emphasizes cheerfulness
3. A brief, whimsical musical passage that adds a sense of fun and playfulness to a larger work

Etymology: Johann Sebastian Bach gave the flute movement in his Orchestral Suite No. 2 the title "Badinerie," and that French noun still names a light, playful piece of music. It comes from the verb "badiner," meaning to joke, tease or banter, which derives from the adjective "badin," used of someone silly, frivolous or playful. The adjective's earlier origin is uncertain. What is clear is the sense of harmless fun it carries, which is why the musical term describes a piece that moves lightly rather than heavily.