heckle
UK: /ˈhɛk(ə)l/ | US: /ˈhɛkəl/
vt. to interrupt a speaker or performer with aggressive or mocking comments
vt. to comb or tease out fibers (e.g., flax or hemp)
heckle = heck<to comb fibers> + le<frequentative verb suffix>
- heck<to comb fibers>: From Middle English hekelen, derived from Old English hæcel (a flax comb), related to Proto-Germanic hakilōną. Originally referred to the tool used to separate flax fibers.
- le<frequentative verb suffix>: A suffix indicating repeated or habitual action (e.g., "dazzle," "sparkle").
Etymology Origin:
The word "heckle" began as a term for the physical act of combing flax fibers (13th century). By the 18th century, it metaphorically extended to verbal "combing" — teasing or harassing someone persistently, especially in public settings. This shift mirrors the abrasive action of the tool, now applied to speech.
The comedian was heckled by an audience member shouting jokes.
Protesters heckled the politician during her speech.
Traditional heckling tools were used to prepare flax for linen.
He ignored the heckles and continued his presentation calmly.
The actor paused, waiting for the heckler to be removed.