heckle
HEK-uhl
/ˈhek(ə)l/
To interrupt a public speaker with derisive or aggressive comments or abuse.
Heckling is specific to a performance or speech context. It's a public form of taunting.
The story behind the word. A 'heckle' was a comb with long metal teeth used to separate the fibers of flax. The metaphorical use comes from the idea of 'combing through' a speaker's words with sharp, biting questions or insults, or perhaps from the 'sharpness' of the heckle's teeth.
Word relationships
- jeer: Jeer is a general term for mocking; heckle is specifically about interrupting a speaker.
- cheer: Cheering is an expression of approval; heckling is an expression of disapproval.
Commonly confused with
- hackle: Hackles are the hairs on the back of an animal's neck; heckle is to interrupt a speaker.
Word family
- heckler (noun): A person who heckles a speaker.
Collocations
- heckle a speaker
- mercilessly heckle
- heckle from the back
Example sentences
- "Several protesters were removed from the hall after they began to heckle the candidate during his closing remarks." A news report on a political rally.
- "The comedian had a sharp wit and was famous for how he handled people who tried to heckle him." Describing a comedy club atmosphere.
Memory hook
Heckle = Heck + Call. You are calling out 'Heck!' at a speaker. Heckle: Sharp teeth for a speaker.
When not to use
Don't use it for private arguments. You don't 'heckle' your spouse in the kitchen; you 'needle' or 'taunt' them.
Fun facts
- In the 19th century, 'heckling' was a standard and expected part of political debates in Scotland.
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