Taunt: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when you want to challenge or provoke someone, often in a mean or malicious way. Typically, this word has a negative connotation.

• The bullies taunted him until he finally snapped.
• She couldn't ignore the constant taunts from her classmates.

Used when you want to make fun of or provoke someone in a playful or gentle way. It can be both positive and negative depending on the context.

• They liked to tease each other about their favorite sports teams.
• Don't take it personally, he's just teasing you.

Used when you want to make fun of someone or something by imitating them in a scornful or contemptuous way. Often used in a playful but sometimes cruel manner.

• He mocked her accent, making everyone laugh.
• The comedian loves to mock political figures.

Used when you want to make someone or something seem foolish by using humor, sarcasm, or scorn. Generally has a negative connotation.

• The idea was ridiculed by his colleagues.
• He faced ridicule from his peers for his unusual hobby.

Used when you want to incite someone to react, often in a negative way, by doing or saying something that irritates or angers them.

• His words were intended to provoke a reaction from the crowd.
• She provoked him until he couldn't take it anymore.

Used when someone is trying to provoke or upset someone else by making mean or mocking remarks.

• He taunted her about her weight.
• The crowd taunted the opposing team mercilessly.

Used when someone says something disrespectful or abusive to someone else.

• He hurled insults at the waiter.
• She felt deeply insulted by his comments.

Used when an action or speech is intended to make someone angry or to incite a reaction.

• She ignored his provocations and remained calm.
• The provocation was meant to start a fight.

Used when people laugh at someone in a rude and mocking way, often in a group setting. It has a strong negative connotation.

• The audience jeered at the performer who forgot the lines.
• He was jeered off the stage during his speech.

Used when someone imitates or makes fun of someone in a way that shows they do not respect them.

• His mockery of her accent was hurtful.
• The caricature was a cruel mockery of the politician.