Ridicule - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Ridicule means to mock or make fun of someone or something in a harsh or scornful way, often to belittle or embarrass them. It involves sarcasm, laughter, or contempt.
Definition:
To mock or make fun of someone or something scornfully.
Synonyms:
mockery, derision, scorn, taunting
Part of Speech:
noun, verb
Antonyms:
praise, respect
Common Collocations:
subject to ridicule, face ridicule, public ridicule, heap ridicule
Derivatives:
ridiculer, ridiculing, ridiculed
Usage Tips:
Use "ridicule" to describe harsh mockery; avoid in formal praise contexts due to its negative connotation.
Common Phrases:
laugh to scorn, object of ridicule, hold up to ridicule
Etymology:
From Latin "ridiculum" (jest) and "ridere" (to laugh), entering English via French in the 17th century.
Examples:
- 1. She faced ridicule for her unconventional ideas.
- 2. His classmates ridiculed him for his clumsy performance.
- 3. Politicians often endure public ridicule during debates.
- 4. Avoid ridiculing others; it can hurt deeply.