Taunting

/ˈtɔn.tɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The act of mocking or teasing someone.

His taunting only made the situation worse and escalated the conflict.

A specific instance of mocking or insulting someone.

Her taunting was relentless, causing her classmate to feel isolated.

verb

To provoke or challenge someone with insulting remarks.

The rival fans were taunting each other throughout the game.

To mock or tease someone in a hurtful way.

She couldn't help but feel upset by her friend's taunting comments about her outfit.

To tease or provoke in a playful or joking manner.

He was just taunting his sibling, but it ended up in a heated argument.

Originates from the word 'taunt', which comes from Middle English 'tanten' and Old French 'tantier', meaning to touch or to reproach.

taunting laughter

Laughter that is meant to mock or ridicule someone.

taunting remarks

Comments made to provoke or insult someone.

mock

To tease or make fun of someone or something.

jeer

To shout or speak rudely or sarcastically.

scoff

To speak to someone or about something in a scornfully derisive or mocking way.

Roasting

He was roasting his friends with some hilarious taunting.

Dissing

She was dissing him with her taunting comments.