from a compound of εὖ and a derivative of the base of τροπή (meaning well-turned, i.e. ready at repartee, jocose); witticism, i.e. (in a vulgar sense) ribaldry:--jesting.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eutrapelía**, represented by `{{G2160}}`, refers to **jesting**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term derives from words meaning "well-turned," which can imply a ready wit or repartee, but in its biblical context, it carries the negative sense of vulgar witticism or ribaldry.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G2160}}` is in [[Ephesians 5:4]], where it is listed among behaviors that are "not convenient." The verse explicitly prohibits **jesting** alongside "filthiness" and "foolish talking." Instead of these forms of speech, the text commands a different course of action: "but rather giving of thanks" [[Ephesians 5:4]]. This places **jesting** in direct opposition to expressing gratitude.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same passage clarify the meaning of `{{G2160}}`:
* `{{G151}}` **aischrótēs** (filthiness): Defined as shamefulness or obscenity, this word appears directly before **jesting** in the list of prohibited speech in [[Ephesians 5:4]].
* `{{G3473}}` **mōrología** (foolish talking): Meaning silly talk or buffoonery, this term is also listed alongside **jesting** as improper communication for believers [[Ephesians 5:4]].
* `{{G2169}}` **eucharistía** (thankfulness, giving of thanks): This word is presented as the righteous alternative to the negative forms of speech. It is described as grateful language, often directed toward God as an act of worship [[Ephesians 5:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2160}}` is derived entirely from its context in Ephesians.
* **Improper Communication:** Its inclusion with **filthiness** `{{G151}}` and **foolish talking** `{{G3473}}` defines it as a type of speech that is inappropriate and unbecoming. The original sense of a "well-turned" phrase is cast in a negative light, referring to coarse or vulgar humor.
* **The Alternative of Gratitude:** The verse does not simply forbid **jesting** but replaces it with **giving of thanks** `{{G2169}}`. This establishes a clear spiritual principle: speech should be characterized by gratitude and worship rather than by obscenity or ribaldry.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2160}}` is not a condemnation of all humor but specifically targets a form of **jesting** associated with vulgarity and foolishness. Its single appearance in scripture serves as a powerful and direct instruction, contrasting inappropriate speech with the positive and worshipful act of giving thanks. The word illustrates how even clever or "well-turned" language can be considered inconvenient when it lacks a foundation of gratitude.
TRV