mockery
UK: ˈmɒkəri | US: ˈmɑːkəri
n. ridicule or contemptuous imitation
n. an absurd or derisive representation
n. a subject of laughter or scorn
The word "mockery" originates from the Old French mocquerie (derision), derived from mocquer (to mock). The root "mock" traces back to Middle English mokken, likely imitative in origin, mimicking the act of scornful laughter. The suffix "-ery" (from Latin -aria) denotes a state or action, transforming the verb "mock" into a noun describing the act or result of ridicule. The evolution reflects a shift from literal imitation to contemptuous behavior.
His speech was met with outright mockery from the audience.
The parody was a clever mockery of political hypocrisy.
She couldn’t bear the mockery of her peers.
The trial became a mockery of justice.
Their exaggerated bows were pure mockery of formal etiquette.