Scoff Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐คจ
scoff
[skษf ]
Definitions
in disbelief
To scoff means to express scornful doubt or derision. It is a way of showing disbelief or contempt towards something or someone.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| scoff |
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.
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| mock |
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.
|
| ridicule |
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.
|
| deride |
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.
|
Examples of usage
- She scoffed at the idea of aliens visiting Earth.
- He scoffed when she told him she had won the lottery.
food
When used in the context of food, to scoff means to eat something quickly and greedily.
Synonyms
devour, gulp down, wolf down.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| scoff |
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.
|
| devour |
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.
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| gulp down |
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.
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| wolf down |
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.
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Examples of usage
- He scoffed down his dinner in less than five minutes.
- She was so hungry that she scoffed all the cookies in one sitting.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In the world of social media, scoffing has become a common response in memes, where sarcastic remarks are paired with relatable images.
- Celebrities often scoff at rumors or gossip about their personal lives during interviews, illustrating how public figures handle criticism.
- Popular TV shows and movies frequently use scoffing to depict characters who are dismissive or cynical about situations.
Psychology
- Research shows that scoffing can be a defense mechanism, allowing individuals to cope with their insecurities by belittling others.
- Scoffing is often associated with feelings of superiority, suggesting that it can reflect deeper issues of self-esteem.
- The act of scoffing may create social distance, as it can alienate the scoffed at and reinforce in-group dynamics.
Social Interactions
- Scoffing can serve as a form of communication that indicates disagreement or dismissal, often leading to conflict or escalation in discussions.
- It's not always negative; sometimes, scoffing can be playful among friends, indicating shared humor or inside jokes.
- In various cultures, the interpretation of scoffing can vary, with some seeing it as a form of humor while others may view it as disrespectful.
Literature
- Many authors use scoffing as a literary device to illustrate charactersโ attitudes, particularly in satirical works.
- Famous literary figures, like Mark Twain, often incorporated scoffing to critique societal norms and behaviors in their stories.
- In Shakespeareโs plays, characters often scoff at the folly of others, highlighting the theme of human folly across his works.
Origin of 'scoff'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English 'scoffen,' which means to mock or jeer.
- It is derived from the Old Norse word 'skop,' meaning 'mockery' or 'taunt.'
- The evolution of the term reflects changing attitudes towards humor and ridicule throughout history.
The word 'scoff' originated in the late 18th century, possibly from the Old Norse word 'skopa' meaning 'to scorn'. Over time, it evolved to encompass both the meanings of expressing disbelief or consuming food quickly.
See also: scoffer, scoffing, scoffingly.