deride

American  

[dih-rahyd] / dɪˈraɪd /

verb (used with object)

derided, deriding

1. to laugh at in scorn or contempt; scoff or jeer at; mock.

   Synonyms:

   rally, banter, gibe, flout, taunt

---

deride British  

/ dɪˈraɪd /

verb

1. (tr) to speak of or treat with contempt, mockery, or ridicule; scoff or jeer at

---

Related Words

See ridicule.

Other Word Forms

• derider noun
• deridingly adverb
• overderide verb (used with object)
• underided adjective

Etymology

Origin of deride

First recorded in 1520–30; from Latin dērīdēre “to mock,” equivalent to dē- de- + rīdēre “to laugh”

Example Sentences

There is plenty of ludicrousness in “Tow” to love and deride alike.

From Salon • Mar. 22, 2026

Today many on the right still deride the Carter years but as the decades passed, his humanitarian efforts and simple lifestyle began to shape a new legacy for many Americans.

From BBC • Dec. 29, 2024

But to deride it as such is to ignore all the episode delivered in exchange for putting off a climactic confrontation of samurais.

From New York Times • Apr. 16, 2024

Yes, it’s Valentine’s Day, the fixed annual celebration of love and friendship, marked by cute couples, eager elementary school students — and critics who deride its commercialization.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 13, 2024

A gentleman will never deride any one for his bad play, nor give vent to oaths, or strong epithets, if disappointed in the playing of one of his side.

From The Gentlemen's Book of Etiquette and Manual of Politeness Being a Complete Guide for a Gentleman's Conduct in all his Relations Towards Society by Hartley, Cecil B.

Related Words

• disdain
• disparage
• mock
• ridicule
• scoff
• scorn
• taunt