mockery

[mok-uh-ree]

noun

plural

mockeries 

1. ridicule, contempt, or derision.

2. a derisive, imitative action or speech.

3. a subject or occasion of derision.

4. an imitation, especially of a ridiculous or unsatisfactory kind.

   Synonyms: mimicry

5. a mocking pretense; travesty.

   a mockery of justice.

6. something absurdly or offensively inadequate or unfitting.

mockery

/ ˈmɒkərɪ /

noun

1. ridicule, contempt, or derision

2. a derisive action or comment

3. an imitation or pretence, esp a derisive one

4. a person or thing that is mocked

5. a person, thing, or action that is inadequate or disappointing

Other Word Forms

• self-mockery noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of mockery¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English moquerie, from Middle French; equivalent to mock + -ery

Example Sentences

These critics believe focusing on mockery distracts from the gravity of the situation and may undermine more serious resistance efforts.

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While the mockery and memes may feel good as snickering payback and certainly stoke the Democratic base — boosting Newsom’s presidential hopes — Mahan suggested they are ultimately counterproductive.

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"This makes a mockery of government promises to protect workers and its plan for net zero," she said.

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Simply by existing, it was a magnet for mockery and criticism, in the press — on morning radio and late-night television.

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There’s mockery indeed in Moscow, where politicians and state-run media continue to celebrate Putin as the summit winner.

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Related Words

• contempt 
• derision 
• disdain 
• ridicule 
• scorn