Meaning & Definition of word "Teasing"

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    Teasing

    /ˈtiːzɪŋ/

    noun:

    • 1. The act of making fun of or provoking someone in a playful or mocking manner.
      • Example: Her teasing about his new haircut made him laugh.
    • 2. Light, playful banter or joking.
      • Example: Their teasing was affectionate, showing their close friendship.

    verb:

    • 1. Present participle of tease; to make fun of in a playful or mocking way.
      • Example: He was teasing his sister about her favorite show.
    • 2. To provoke or annoy someone by making fun of them.
      • Example: The older kids were teasing the younger ones during recess.

    Etymology

    Middle English, from the verb 'tease', derived from Old English 'tǣsan', meaning to pull or to pluck.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    teasing out:

    To extract information from someone in a playful way.

    teasingly:

    In a playfully mocking manner.

    just teasing:

    Saying something to provoke but indicating it's not serious.

    Related Words

    teaser:

    A person or thing that teases.

    banter:

    Casual and cheerful conversation that includes teasing.

    joke:

    Something said or done to provoke laughter, often implies some teasing.

    Slang Meanings of teasing

    Meaning: Playful ribbing.

    Example Sentence: They were just having some playful ribbing over the weekend.

    Meaning: Joking around in a friendly way.

    Example Sentence: We spent the evening joking around as usual.