derision

UK: dɪˈrɪʒ(ə)n | US: dɪˈrɪʒən

Definition

  1. n. contemptuous ridicule or mockery

  2. n. an object of ridicule

Structure
deride <to mock>sion <noun suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin deridere ("to laugh to scorn"), combining de- (down, completely) + ridere (to laugh). The noun suffix -sion transforms the verb into a state or action, giving "derision" its modern meaning of scornful laughter or mockery. The word reflects the idea of "laughing someone down" with contempt.

Examples

  1. His proposal was met with derision from the committee.

  2. She couldn't hide her derision when he tripped on stage.

  3. The politician's speech became an object of public derision.

  4. Their derision only strengthened his resolve to prove them wrong.

  5. The teacher frowned at the derision in the students' whispers.