mocking
Americanadjective
noun
Other Word Forms
- mockingly adverb
- self-mocking adjective
- unmocking adjective
- unmockingly adverb
Etymology
Origin of mocking
First recorded in 1400–50; mock ( def. ) + -ing 2 ( def. ) for the adjective; mock ( def. ) + -ing 1 ( def. ) for the noun
Explanation
When you talk to or about someone in a mocking tone, you're making fun of them in a nasty, mean way. But if you're a comedy writer or political satirist, a mocking attitude is a tool of your trade. If you're writing a skit about the outrageous proposal some politician has just made, you'll write it in a mocking tone, imitating the politician's voice and mannerisms in a way that makes him look as ridiculous as you think he is. Seen any mockingbirds lately? That's the bird that sings almost nonstop, imitating the calls of other birds.
Vocabulary lists containing mocking
The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 1
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"The Most Dangerous Game" by Richard Connell
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ACT Reading Test: Words to Capture Tone, List 1
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
On Sunday he continued a feud with Bruce Springsteen, who has been critical of the president and the war, mocking his appearance in a social-media post.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026
Anti-racism campaigners criticised the move for mocking the Black Lives Matter movement.
From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026
The former “Cosby Show” actor became the subject of viral job-shaming, with critics mocking him for working retail decades after his television success.
From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026
Though many of those “Chuck Norris Facts” were facetious and mocking, there were just as many that served as unironic celebrations of the man.
From Slate • Mar. 20, 2026
“What disgraceful behavior!” he exclaimed in a mocking tone so familiar that it made her teary.
From "In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson" by Bette Bao Lord
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
