derisive

Also de·ri·so·ry

[dih-rahy-siv, -ris-iv]

adjective

1. characterized by or expressing derision; contemptuous; mocking.

   derisive heckling.

derisive

/ dɪˈraɪsɪv, -zɪv /

adjective

1. showing or characterized by derision; mocking; scornful

Other Word Forms

• derisively adverb
• derisiveness noun
• nonderisive adjective
• overderisive adjective
• overderisively adverb
• overderisiveness noun
• underisive adjective
• underisively adverb
• underisiveness noun
• underisory adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of derisive¹

First recorded in 1655–65; deris(ion) + -ive

Example Sentences

The title sounds derisive, but the show is anything but.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

In addition, Rolfe's "derisive attitudes" toward female colleagues and some superiors, as well as his "contempt for bush cops", may have influenced his actions the day he shot Walker, Judge Armitage found.

Read more on BBC

Despite this commercial growth, Rebeka says broader attitudes remain derisive - particularly when it comes to "spicy" titles.

Read more on BBC

It was punctuated by passive-aggressive jabs, snide comments and, upon Trump's return to the White House, the president's derisive reference to "Governor Trudeau" and repeated talk of turning Canada into America's "cherished 51st state".

Read more on BBC

American democracy cannot survive four more years of derisive laughter at the expense of our unity.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• cheeky 
• disdainful 
• insulting 
• mocking 
• rude 
• sarcastic 
• scornful