Mock: meaning, definitions and examples
๐คช
mock
[mษk ]
Definitions
in a playful or teasing manner
To tease or make fun of someone or something in a playful or light-hearted way.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
mock |
Use when imitating someone in a way that makes fun of them. It can be playful or mean.
|
tease |
Use when playfully making fun of someone in a light-hearted, friendly manner. However, it can sometimes be hurtful if done excessively.
|
ridicule |
Use in situations where someone is being made fun of in a mean-spirited or cruel way. It has a negative connotation.
|
taunt |
Use when someone is trying to provoke or upset another person by making hurtful comments or insults. It is often used in a confrontational manner.
|
Examples of usage
- Stop mocking me, I know you're just joking around.
- She mocked him for his silly dance moves.
imitation for ridicule
A copy or imitation of something, especially for the purpose of ridicule.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
mock |
Used when making fun of someone or something in a scornful manner. Often involves imitation in a negative or sarcastic way.
|
imitation |
Refers to the act of copying someone or something. It is neutral and can be used in various contexts, whether positive, negative, or neutral.
|
mimicry |
Used when noting the action of copying someone's behavior, speech, or actions, often used in a neutral or positive context.
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parody |
Typically involves a humorous or exaggerated imitation of a style, person, or work of art. It is often used in entertainment and satire.
|
Examples of usage
- The parody was a hilarious mock of the popular TV show.
- Her mock of his accent had everyone laughing.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'mock' comes from the Old Norse word 'mokkr', meaning 'to deride or taunt'.
- It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century, originally meaning 'to tease or jeer'.
- In Shakespeare's works, the term was often used to describe actions that belittled or ridiculed characters.
Pop Culture
- 'Mockumentary' is a popular film and TV genre that parodies documentary filmmaking, seen in shows like 'The Office'.
- In music, many parody songs, like those by Weird Al Yankovic, mock social issues or pop culture in a humorous way.
- The phrase 'mock trials' refers to practice court cases where students emulate real trials to learn legal processes.
Psychology
- Mocking can serve as a defense mechanism, allowing individuals to hide their insecurities by belittling others.
- Studies show that mocking can create social bonds or hierarchies, as it often reflects group dynamics.
- It can also be a manifestation of bullying, indicating power imbalances among peers.
Literature
- In literature, grim mockery is often used to highlight the absurdity of societal norms, as seen in works by Jonathan Swift.
- Fables and fairy tales frequently utilize characters that mock others, teaching moral lessons through their satire.
- Authors like Jane Austen employed social mockery to critique the behavior and values of their contemporary society.
Theater
- Theatrical performances often include 'mock fights' as a comedic element, showcasing exaggerated actions for humor.
- Satirical plays have a long tradition of mocking political figures, as seen in works like 'The Importance of Being Earnest'.
- Many comedic roles in theater involve characters who mock the status quo, revealing deeper truths about society.
Translations
Translations of the word "mock" in other languages:
๐ต๐น zombar
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฎเคเคผเคพเค
๐ฉ๐ช verspotten
๐ฎ๐ฉ mengejek
๐บ๐ฆ ะณะปัะทัะฒะฐัะธ
๐ต๐ฑ drwiฤ
๐ฏ๐ต ใใใใ
๐ซ๐ท se moquer de
๐ช๐ธ burlarse de
๐น๐ท alay etmek
๐ฐ๐ท ์กฐ๋กฑํ๋ค
๐ธ๐ฆ ูุณุฎุฑ
๐จ๐ฟ vysmรญvat se
๐ธ๐ฐ vysmievat sa
๐จ๐ณ ๅฒ็ฌ
๐ธ๐ฎ posmehovati se
๐ฎ๐ธ spotta
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะผะฐะทะฐาัะฐั
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแแแ แแ แกแแฃแแแ แ
๐ฆ๐ฟ laฤ etmษk
๐ฒ๐ฝ burlarse de