Scoff: meaning, definitions and examples

Scoff is identical to the word listed above and is used when someone is openly showing disbelief or lack of respect for an idea or person, often in a dismissive or contemptuous way.

• He scoffed when I told him my plans for the weekend.
• They scoffed at the new policies being introduced.

Mock is used when someone imitates or makes fun of another person in a dismissive or hurtful way. It often involves mimicking someone's actions or words.

• The students mocked their teacher's accent.
• She was mocked by her coworkers for her mistakes.

Ridicule is used when someone is making fun of someone or something in a contemptuous or belittling manner. It is often used to embarrass someone.

• They ridiculed his suggestion during the meeting.
• She faced ridicule for her unconventional outfit.

Deride is used when someone is laughing at or showing contempt for someone or something in a way that is hurtful. It carries a negative connotation.

• The critics derided the new movie as a complete failure.
• His colleagues derided him for his unrealistic plans.

Best suited for describing the act of eating with a sense of disdain or disbelief, often suggesting a careless or hurried manner. It can also have a negative connotation.

• He scoffed down his dinner and left the table without a word.
• She scoffed at the idea of eating such a fancy meal.

Appropriate for situations where someone is eating something eagerly and quickly, often with great enthusiasm or hunger. It may also suggest a somewhat aggressive manner.

• After the long hike, they devoured their sandwiches in no time.
• She devoured the book in just one night.

Used when someone is drinking or eating something very quickly, typically in large amounts or without chewing much. It often implies urgency or a lack of time.

• He gulped down a glass of water after his run.
• With only ten minutes for lunch, she gulped down her meal.

Similar to 'devour', but with a stronger connotation of eating very quickly and with great hunger. It can imply that the person is eating in a somewhat animalistic fashion.

• After not having breakfast, he wolfed down his lunch.
• The kids wolfed down their pizza before heading out to play.