Teasing - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Teasing is playful or lighthearted joking meant to provoke or amuse someone, often without malice. It can be friendly banter or gentle mockery, depending on context and tone.
Definition:
Playfully making fun of someone in a lighthearted or annoying way.
Synonyms:
mocking, taunting, ribbing, joking
Part of Speech:
noun, adjective, verb (present participle)
Antonyms:
praising, comforting
Common Collocations:
playful teasing, teasing smile, teasing remarks, teasing tone
Derivatives:
tease, teaser, teasingly
Usage Tips:
Use "teasing" for harmless fun; avoid if it might upset someone.
Common Phrases:
just teasing, teasing apart, stop teasing me
Etymology:
From Old English *tǣsan* (to pull apart), related to provoking or irritating someone playfully.
Examples:
- 1. She laughed at his playful teasing during lunch.
- 2. Her teasing remarks made him blush in embarrassment.
- 3. The siblings enjoyed teasing each other about their childhood memories.
- 4. He gave her a teasing smile before telling the joke.