heckle
verb (used with object)
to harass (a public speaker, performer, etc.) with impertinent questions, gibes, or the like; badger.
heckling
-
present participleof heckle.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Within minutes of the young man in Kasenyi sending out his note, a crowd had gathered around the four volunteers, heckling them and shouting insults.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 16, 2026
The heckling spurred Burnham on to raise the issue in cabinet, contributing to the launch of a second inquiry into the disaster.
From BBC ● May 14, 2026
I was not heckling or mocking, but what followed was immediate — and instructive.
From Salon ● Dec. 21, 2025
One federal agent saw the patrollers, turned up his music, and began heckling the group as he rode in.
From Slate ● Oct. 27, 2025
"Don't listen to him. He's just heckling you."
From "The Shakespeare Stealer" by Gary L. Blackwood
