gibe

¹

or jibe

[ jahyb ]

verb (used without object)

, gibed, gib·ing.

1. to utter mocking or scoffing words; jeer.

   Synonyms: gird, sneer, mock

verb (used with object)

, gibed, gib·ing.

1. to taunt; deride.

   Synonyms: fleer, twit, ridicule

noun

1. a taunting or sarcastic remark.

   Synonyms: jeer, scoff, sneer

gibe

²

[ jahyb ]

verb (used with or without object)

, gibed, gib·ing,

1. jibe ³.

gibe

¹

/ dʒaɪb /

verb

1. a variant spelling of gybe

gibe

²

/ dʒaɪb /

verb

1. to make jeering or scoffing remarks (at); taunt

noun

1. a derisive or provoking remark

Derived Forms

• ˈgibingly, adverb
• ˈgiber, noun

Other Words From

• giber noun
• gibing·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of gibe¹

First recorded before 1560–70; perhaps from Middle French giber “to handle roughly, shake,” derivative of gibe “staff, billhook”

Word History and Origins

Origin of gibe¹

C16: perhaps from Old French giber to treat roughly, of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

Since then, the actor and comedian has drawn audiences with her gibes at patriarchy and customs rooted in gender stereotypes and body-shaming.

From Ozy

Be content, then, nor gibe at thy betters of "the Duke of B——'s establishment— that's all."

From Project Gutenberg

Then he looked down the long table at Odin and could not resist one gibe.

From Project Gutenberg

Foolish people are fond of quoting a foolish gibe: "Be good, and you may be happy; but you will not have a good time."

From Project Gutenberg

Her will revived public interest in the forgotten beauty of the past generation, and afforded many a gibe at her expense.

From Project Gutenberg

Baudichon breathed quickly, partly with the haste he had made across the road, partly in irritation at the gibe.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• jab
• sarcasm
• swipe