Bantam

(Zool.) A variety of the common domestic fowl, originally brought from the East Indies, and supposed to derive its name from the above town. It is remarkable for its small size, being only about 1 pound in weight, and for a disposition more courageous and pugnacious than even that of a game-cock. Ban'tam, in Ohio. a post-village of Clermont co. Ban'tam Falls, in Connecticut, formerly a post-office of Litchfield. Ban'ter, v a . [Probably from Fr. badiner , to be frolicsome: to play or joke with l To joke or jest with; to play upon; to rally. "Shall we, cries one, permit His lewd romances, and his bant'ring wit."-Tate. -n. A joking or jesting; raillery; pleasantry; good humored sarcasm; as, "Part banter, part affection." Banting System. See OBESITY,