derisive
dih-RYE-siv
/dɪˈraɪsɪv/
Expressing contempt, ridicule, or mocking scorn.
Derisive describes an action, laugh, or comment that actively belittles someone. It is louder and more aggressive than a snide remark, often aimed at making the target feel completely foolish in front of others.
The story behind the word. Derisive comes from the Latin verb 'deridere', which is composed of the prefix 'de-' (down) and 'ridere' (to laugh). Literally, it means 'to laugh down' at someone. It entered English in the 17th century, capturing the image of looking down on someone while laughing at their expense.
Word relationships
- contemptuous: Contemptuous describes a feeling of deep hatred or lack of respect, while derisive specifically describes the outward expression of that contempt through mockery.
- scornful: Scornful and derisive are very close, but derisive often implies an active, noisy display of ridicule, like laughing or booing.
- appreciative: Appreciative describes showing gratitude, pleasure, or deep approval.
- supportive: Supportive involves providing encouragement, help, or approval to someone.
Commonly confused with
- decisive: Decisive means settling an issue quickly and definitely, whereas derisive means expressing ridicule and contempt.
Word family
- deride (verb): To express contempt for; ridicule.
- derision (noun): Contemptuous ridicule or mockery.
- derisively (adverb): In a manner expressing contempt or ridicule.
Collocations
- derisive laughter
- derisive snort
- derisive hoot
- derisive smile
Example sentences
- "The politician's speech was drowned out by derisive laughter from the protesters." A description of a hostile audience's reaction.
Memory hook
Think of 'derisive' as 'derailing' someone's confidence by 'laughing' at them. Derisive laughter derails. Laughing down to derail someone's confidence.
When not to use
Do not use derisive to describe gentle, friendly teasing; it always carries a strong element of contempt and hostility.
Fun facts
- The root 'ridere' (to laugh) is also the source of our English words 'ridiculous', 'risible', and 'ridicule'.
- In psychology, derisive laughter is studied as a form of social exclusion, used to establish dominance within a group.
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