ridicule
UK: ˈrɪd.ɪ.kjuːl | US: ˈrɪd.ə.kjuːl
n. speech or action intended to mock or humiliate someone
vt. to subject someone to scornful laughter or mockery
The word ridicule entered English in the 17th century from French ridicule, which derived from Latin ridiculum ("a joke"). The root rid- (laugh) combined with -icule (a trivializing suffix) originally referred to a trivial jest, later evolving to mean derisive mockery. The shift reflects how humor can weaponize triviality to demean.
His proposal was met with ridicule from the committee.
She refused to ridicule her colleague’s mistake.
Political cartoons often use ridicule to criticize leaders.
The audience burst into ridicule at the poorly delivered speech.
Avoid ridicule—it can damage relationships irreparably.