Mocking
'mɒkɪŋ
Definitions
2 meaningsTo treat with contempt or ridicule.
'mɒk
To make fun of someone or something, often by imitating them or saying things that are intended to be cruel.
The bullies were mocking him for his stutter.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone is copying your silly walk to make you laugh (but in a mean way). That's mocking! It's like making fun of someone's actions or words.
👶 For kids: To make fun of someone by copying what they do or say.
More Examples
She was mocking his accent.
The comedian mocked the politician's policies.
How It's Used
"The older kids were mocking the new student's clothes."
"Shakespeare often used mocking humor in his plays."
Expressing or implying contempt or ridicule.
'mɒkɪŋ
Characterized by or expressing mockery or ridicule.
She gave a mocking smile.
💡 Simply: Imagine a laugh that's not friendly; it's a laugh that's making fun of you. The laughing is 'mocking.'
👶 For kids: When something is making fun of you.
More Examples
His mocking tone made everyone uncomfortable.
The mocking words hurt her feelings.
How It's Used
"The author used a mocking tone throughout the satire."
"She gave a mocking laugh after his clumsy attempt."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
mockingbird
A North American songbird known for its ability to mimic the songs of other birds.
"The mockingbird's song is a medley of sounds."
From Middle English mokken, from Old French mocquer ('to mock, jeer'), of uncertain origin. Possibly related to Middle Dutch mocken ('to grumble').
Mocking has been used since the 13th century to describe ridicule and contempt.
Memory tip
Think of a mockingbird that imitates other birds' songs to make fun of them. To mock someone is to imitate and laugh at them.
Word Origin
"To mock, jeer"