mocking

American  

[mok-ing] / ˈmɒk ɪŋ /

adjective

1. showing ridicule, contempt, or derision.

   Elsewhere along the parade route, small bands of protesters held mocking signs.

---

noun

1. contemptuous, derisive, and usually imitative speech or action.

   Jake just turned his face away and took the mocking and ridicule his brothers dished out.

Other Word Forms

• mockingly adverb
• self-mocking adjective
• unmocking adjective
• unmockingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of mocking

First recorded in 1400–50; mock ( def. ) + -ing ² ( def. ) for the adjective; mock ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. ) for the noun

Example Sentences

The former “Cosby Show” actor became the subject of viral job-shaming, with critics mocking him for working retail decades after his television success.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

When you can make more money mocking tech sales bros than actually being one.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 29, 2026

Though many of those “Chuck Norris Facts” were facetious and mocking, there were just as many that served as unironic celebrations of the man.

From Slate • Mar. 20, 2026

Afroman takes the stand in a civil lawsuit brought against him by sheriff’s deputies he featured in mocking videos after they raided his home in 2022.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 2026

Maybe Cardan would say he was doing it for the benefit of onlookers, but we both know he’s mocking me.

From "The Cruel Prince" by Holly Black

Related Words

• derisive
• sarcastic