teasing
the act of persistently annoying someone, especially playfully and with silly jokes about them: Most holidays, we all manage to squeeze in at Grandma’s and enjoy a crazy day full of laughter, teasing, eating, and sharing.
the act of bullying, harassing, or tormenting someone: Many students with learning disabilities suffer the frustration of low achievement and the teasing and poor self-image that come with it.
the act of purposely exciting, tantalizing, or sexually arousing someone without providing subsequent gratification: She smiled over her shoulder at him, brown eyes shiny with teasing.
harassing, tantalizing, or playfully annoying someone in any of these ways: In answer to my eager question, they shrugged a teasing “maybe.”Lisa turns 20 next month and her mother is already sending her teasing texts featuring grandma emojis.
Origin of teasing
1Other words from teasing
- teas·ing·ly, adverb
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024
How to use teasing in a sentence
Loving words to herself, kisses and stories for Meta, teasings and jokes for Margery.
The Shadow of Ashlydyat | Mrs. Henry WoodEven in their mutual teasings the deep, brotherly affection was unwavering.
The Reclaimers | Margaret Hill McCarterI tormented the family by persistent teasings to go somewhere, or to do something.
Confessions of Boyhood | John AlbeeUndaunted by the teasings and laughter of the other girls “Peter Pan” strode out of the tent to show herself to the “other boys.”
The Brand | Therese Broderick
Browse