Tease: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when playfully making fun of someone without intending to hurt their feelings. It's often light-hearted and done among friends or family.

• He likes to tease his sister about her taste in music.
• She teased him for his funny dance moves.

Used when imitating or mimicking someone in a mean or hurtful way. It often has a negative or disrespectful connotation.

• He mocked her accent, making her feel embarrassed.
• They mocked his idea, making it seem foolish.

Used when criticizing or making fun of someone in a mean and contemptuous manner. It usually has strong negative connotations.

• The students ridiculed his outfit, making him feel self-conscious.
• She was ridiculed for her unusual beliefs.

Used when provoking or challenging someone with hurtful remarks or actions. It is generally intended to upset the other person and has a very negative connotation.

• The bully taunted him about his weight.
• She taunted her opponent, trying to throw her off her game.

Used when making a humorous comment or story meant to entertain or amuse. It's generally harmless and accepted in casual settings.

• He told a joke about why chickens cross roads.
• We like to joke about how clumsy she is.

Best used when gently making fun of someone in a playful or affectionate manner. It can sometimes have a negative connotation if overdone.

• He likes to tease his little sister about her new haircut, but she knows he means no harm.
• She teased him about his love for cheesy romantic movies.

Applies to light-hearted or playful behavior meant to show romantic or sexual interest.

• He would often flirt with her, hoping she'd notice his feelings.
• They flirted with each other during the party, enjoying the playful interaction.

Suitable for light, playful conversation or friendly exchange of teasing remarks.

• The friends engaged in some friendly banter before the game started.
• Their banter made the long bus ride much more enjoyable.

Used to describe behavior that is flirtatious and intended to attract someone's attention, often in a light-hearted way. It can sometimes have a slightly superficial or insincere connotation.

• She coquetted with him throughout the evening, making him wonder if she was genuinely interested.
• The actress's coquetry was obvious as she smiled and winked at the camera.

When you want to mock or make fun of someone in a playful or sometimes annoying way.

• He likes to tease his little sister by hiding her toys.
• Don't take it seriously; he's just teasing you.

Used to describe someone who likes to make jokes or behaves in a humorous way, often in social settings.

• Tom is the joker of our group; he's always coming up with funny stories.
• Sarah laughed because she knew John was quite the joker.

Can be used to describe a person who likes to tease or something designed to tantalize or provoke curiosity, such as a short preview of a movie.

• The film's teaser got everyone excited for the full trailer.
• As a bit of a teaser, she hinted at some big news but wouldn't elaborate.

Refers to someone or something that entices or lures someone into doing something, often with a negative connotation.

• The sweet smell of the bakery was a real tempter for anyone passing by.
• He was a tempter, always encouraging his friends to skip classes.