Taunting: meaning, definitions and examples

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taunting

[ ˈtɔːntɪŋ ]

^{Context #1}

in sports

To provoke or challenge (someone) with insulting or mocking remarks, often in an attempt to unsettle or distract them.

Synonyms

mock, provoke, tease

Examples of usage

He was taunting the opposing team's goalkeeper, trying to throw him off his game.
The fans started taunting the referee after a controversial call.

^{Context #2}

general

To intentionally annoy or irritate (someone) with persistent teasing or mockery.

Synonyms

aggravate, harass, torment

Examples of usage

She couldn't stand the way he kept taunting her with his jokes.
The bully would always taunt the younger kids at school.

Translations

Translations of the word "taunting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 provocação

🇮🇳 उकसाना

🇩🇪 Verspottung

🇮🇩 ejekan

🇺🇦 дражнити

🇵🇱 drwina

🇯🇵 挑発 (ちょうはつ)

🇫🇷 provocation

🇪🇸 burla

🇹🇷 alay

🇰🇷 조롱

🇸🇦 سخرية

🇨🇿 posměch

🇸🇰 posmech

🇨🇳 嘲弄

🇸🇮 zasmehovanje

🇮🇸 háð

🇰🇿 мысқылдау

🇬🇪 წამოძახება

🇦🇿 lağ etmək

🇲🇽 burla

Word origin

The word 'taunting' originated from the Middle English word 'taunten', which means to reproach or provoke. It has been used in English language since the 16th century. The act of taunting has been observed in various cultures and contexts throughout history, often as a form of psychological warfare or dominance display. Taunting can be seen in sports, interpersonal relationships, and even in conflicts between nations.