heckler

[ hek-ler, hek-uh-ler ]

noun

1. a person who harasses a public speaker or performer with impertinent questions, insults, etc.:

   As a comedian, you have to face any hecklers in the crowd head-on and deal with them, because if you don't, they can take over the show.

Word History and Origins

Origin of heckler¹

heckle ( def ) + -er ¹

Example Sentences

One night, Cher responded cheekily to a heckler, and the crowd laughed.

From Los Angeles Times

Jason Kelce then turns around and grabs a phone out of someone’s hand — presumably that of the heckler — and smashes it to the ground.

From Los Angeles Times

His exit came as the heckler had repeated his call and added "how many dead children will it take".

From BBC

The country star talks about the traditionalism of her latest album, ‘Hummingbird,’ and the interaction with a heckler that spawned a viral video.

From Los Angeles Times

The vice president drew criticism for how she handled pro-Palestine hecklers at an August rally.

From Salon

Related Words

• dissident
• militant