mocking
MOK-ing
/ˈmɒkɪŋ/
Making fun of someone or something in a cruel, derisive, or teasing way; mimicking to show contempt.
Mocking is direct and often personal. It can involve imitating someone's voice, gestures, or beliefs in an exaggerated, disrespectful way to make them look ridiculous.
The story behind the word. The word mocking comes from the Old French 'mocquer', meaning 'to deride, jeer, or cheat'. Its ultimate origin is uncertain, but it is likely imitative of a facial grimace or the sound made when scoffing at someone. It entered English in the 15th century and has always carried a connotation of disrespectful imitation.
Word relationships
- derisive: Derisive is more formal and implies a deep, scornful contempt, while mocking can be more active, involving physical imitation or direct teasing.
- ridiculing: Ridiculing is closely related but often implies a more systematic attempt to make something look absurd.
- respectful: Respectful implies showing deep admiration, honor, and polite consideration.
- reverent: Reverent describes a feeling of profound respect and awe, often in a spiritual or formal context.
Commonly confused with
- mimicking: Mimicking is simply copying someone's actions or voice, which can be neutral or even affectionate, while mocking always has a cruel or derisive intent.
Word family
- mock (verb): To tease or laugh at in a scornful or contemptuous manner.
- mockery (noun): Teasing and contemptuous language or behavior.
- mockingly (adverb): In a mocking or derisive manner.
Collocations
- mocking tone
- mocking laughter
- mocking smile
- mocking bird
Example sentences
- "The children gathered in a circle, mocking the boy who had tripped on the playground." Describing the behavior of schoolyard bullies.
Memory hook
Think of a 'mockingbird' that mimics other birds' songs, but imagine it doing so to make fun of them. A mockingbird mimicking others to tease them.
When not to use
Do not use mocking when the humor is self-deprecating or when it is a gentle, affectionate tease between close friends.
Fun facts
- The mockingbird is famous for its ability to mimic not only other birds, but also car alarms, barking dogs, and squeaky gates.
- In literature, 'mock-heroic' poetry uses a grand, epic style to describe trivial matters, creating a mocking contrast.
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