taunt
TAWNT
/tɔːnt/
To remark or challenge in a sarcastic, insulting, or scornful manner.
Taunting is specifically verbal and involves mocking. It is often done to show superiority or to make the other person lose their cool.
The story behind the word. The origin is a bit murky, but it likely comes from the idea of 'testing' someone's patience or 'tempting' them to lose their temper. By the 1500s, it had solidified into the specific meaning of mocking or jeering.
Word relationships
- mock: Mocking is making fun of someone; taunting is making fun of someone specifically to provoke a fight or a reaction.
- compliment: A compliment is a kind word; a taunt is a cruel one.
Commonly confused with
- taut: Taut means pulled tight (like a rope); taunt is a verbal insult.
Word family
- tauntingly (adverb): In a way that is intended to taunt.
Collocations
- cruel taunt
- taunt a rival
- bitter taunt
Example sentences
- "The older boys would taunt him about his hand-me-down clothes until he was in tears." Describing playground behavior.
- "The fans began to taunt the opposing goalkeeper after he let in a soft goal." A sports context.
Memory hook
Taunt sounds like 'Taunt' (the French word for aunt? No). Think of 'Taught'—someone who thinks they 'taught' you a lesson by mocking you. Taunt: A cruel chant.
When not to use
Don't use 'taunt' for physical poking or silent provocation; it requires a 'remark' or a 'jeer'.
Fun facts
- In many video games, a 'taunt' is a specific character animation used to annoy the opponent player.
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