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Heckle: meaning, definitions and examples

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heckle

 

[ ˈhɛkəl ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

public speaking

To heckle is to interrupt a speaker or performer with rude comments or questions. This usually occurs in a live setting, such as a comedy show or public speech, and can disrupt the flow of the event. Heckling can vary in severity, from light teasing to harsh criticism. While some performers may engage with hecklers humorously, others may find it distracting or offensive.

Synonyms

interrupt, jeer, taunt.

Examples of usage

  • The comedian was heckled by an audience member.
  • She tried to continue her speech despite the heckling.
  • The heckler was eventually removed by security.
  • He decided to embrace the heckler and turned it into a joke.

Translations

Translations of the word "heckle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 interromper

🇮🇳 उलाहना देना

🇩🇪 stören

🇮🇩 menggangu

🇺🇦 перебивати

🇵🇱 przeszkadzać

🇯🇵 野次る (やじる)

🇫🇷 interrompre

🇪🇸 interrumpir

🇹🇷 rahatsız etmek

🇰🇷 방해하다

🇸🇦 يقطع

🇨🇿 rušit

🇸🇰 prerušovať

🇨🇳 打断 (dǎduàn)

🇸🇮 prekiniti

🇮🇸 trufla

🇰🇿 араластыру

🇬🇪 შეწყვეტა

🇦🇿 kəsmək

🇲🇽 interrumpir

Etymology

The word 'heckle' originates from the late 19th century, derived from the Scottish term 'heck', meaning to tease or make fun of. It is thought to be related to the word 'heckler', which appears in the English language around the same time, addressing individuals who mock or disturb performers. The term originally referred to the process of combing flax or hemp, showing a connection to the idea of pulling apart or teasing out material. Over time, 'heckle' evolved to more specifically describe the act of interrupting a public performance with comments intended to disrupt or annoy. By the early 20th century, it became commonly used in the context of live entertainment, particularly in theater and comedy. The shift from its original meaning illustrates how language adapts and changes, often reflecting societal behaviors around public speech and performance.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,554, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.