Mockery: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this when you're talking about making fun of someone or something in a very disrespectful, often contemptuous way.

• Her attempt at cooking was met with mockery from her friends

Use 'ridicule' when someone is being made fun of in a way that shows they are considered silly or worthless. It is often used in a formal context.

• Politicians often face ridicule from the media

This word is suitable for situations where someone is being laughed at or treated with scorn. It usually implies a deep level of disrespect and contempt.

• The new policy was greeted with derision by the employees

This is appropriate for situations where playful jokes or comments are made, often among friends or in a light-hearted manner. It can, however, sometimes border on cruelty if taken too far.

• Tom enjoys teasing his little sister about her fashion choices

Used when someone or something is being made fun of in a cruel or disrespectful way. It often conveys a negative sense of ridicule.

• The comedian's mockery of the politician was both sharp and hilarious.
• Her attempt at singing was met with mockery from the audience.

Used when someone is copying or mimicking someone else, usually without any negative intent. It can be neutral or even positive depending on the context, often used to describe an act of flattery or learning by copying.

• Her imitation of his accent was spot-on.
• The child's imitation of the dance routine was adorable.

Used to describe a humorous or exaggerated imitation of a particular genre, work, or person. It often highlights and exaggerates the flaws or peculiarities of the original. While it can be playful, it also can carry a critical edge.

• The movie is a parody of old spy films, complete with ridiculous gadgets and exaggerated villains.
• He wrote a parody of the famous poem to make a point about modern society.

Refers to a situation that is so absurd or ridiculous that it becomes funny. Often used to describe comedies with exaggerated and improbable events, or to criticize something as being a grossly unserious or ineffective.

• The play quickly turned into a farce, with characters running in and out of doors in a chaotic manner.
• The trial was such a farce that no one took it seriously.

Used to highlight something being treated as a joke or not taken seriously.

• The latest policy has been met with mockery from the public.
• His attempt at singing was just a mockery of the original song.

Generally milder and can be playful, but sometimes can be hurtful if the intent or perception is negative.

• They like to tease each other in a friendly way.
• He teased her about her new haircut.

Emphasizes harsh or contemptuous laughter, often intended to belittle someone. Negative connotation.

• She became the subject of ridicule after her presentation went wrong.
• Their idea was met with ridicule during the meeting.

Implies mocking or insulting someone with the intent to provoke and upset them. Negative connotation.

• The bully continued to taunt him with mean names.
• During the game, the players exchanged taunts.