DERISION

Definition of DERISION

DERISION Noun

Derision is a noun that refers to the act of ridiculing, mocking, or contemptuously dismissing someone or something. It involves expressing scorn or disdain through laughter or criticism, often intended to belittle or undermine.

Ridicule and Mockery: Derision involves the use of ridicule or mockery to express contempt or disdain. For example, “The comedian’s routine was met with derision from the audience.” This usage highlights how derision manifests as laughter or criticism aimed at belittling or demeaning someone or something.

Contemptuous Dismissal: Derision can also refer to the act of contemptuously dismissing ideas, actions, or people as unworthy of consideration. For instance, “Her suggestions were met with derision by her colleagues.” This reflects how derision is used to express scorn or disregard, often dismissing the value or importance of what is being ridiculed.

Impact on Self-Esteem: Derision can have a significant impact on an individual’s self-esteem and confidence, as it involves public or social ridicule. For example, “Constant exposure to derision can lead to diminished self-worth and confidence.” This shows how being subjected to derision can affect a person’s emotional and psychological well-being.

Social and Cultural Contexts: Derision is often observed in social and cultural contexts, where public figures, ideas, or practices are subjected to ridicule or scorn. For instance, “The political leader faced derision from the media and public for his controversial statements.” This emphasizes how derision operates within social and cultural frameworks to criticize or undermine.

In conclusion, derision is a noun that refers to the act of ridiculing, mocking, or contemptuously dismissing someone or something. It involves expressing scorn or disdain through laughter or criticism, impacting self-esteem and operating within social and cultural contexts. Understanding derision helps in recognizing its effects on individuals and its role in social and cultural interactions.

Examples of DERISION in a sentence

  • His proposal was met with loud derision from the audience, making it clear they did not support his ideas.
  • The actor faced derision from critics who panned his performance in the film.
  • The student felt hurt by the derision of his classmates after his presentation went poorly.
  • The politician’s speech was received with derision by his opponents, who mocked his arguments.
  • The team’s efforts were overshadowed by derision from those who doubted their abilities.
  • She couldn’t ignore the derision in her colleagues’ comments about her new project.
  • The comedian’s routine was designed to provoke laughter, but it sometimes drew derision instead.
  • The derision directed at the controversial decision led to a heated debate among the stakeholders.

Origin of DERISION

Derision traces its origins back to the Latin word derīsiō, which means “mockery” or “ridicule.” This term is derived from derīdere, meaning “to mock” or “to laugh at,” combining de- (down, away) and rīdere (to laugh).

  • Latin: Derīsiō (mockery, ridicule), from derīdere (to mock, to laugh at), from de- (down) and rīdere (to laugh).
  • Old French: The Latin derīsiō evolved into Old French as derision, meaning “mockery” or “scorn.”
  • Middle English: The term entered Middle English as derisioun, referring to contemptuous or scornful laughter.

In contemporary English, derision refers to the use of ridicule or mockery to express contempt or disdain. It emphasizes the act of belittling or demeaning someone or something through scornful laughter or remarks. The term has evolved from its Latin roots of mocking or laughing down to describe various forms of disrespectful or contemptuous behavior. Derision highlights the aspect of scornful or mocking contempt aimed at undermining or degrading.

Synonyms

  • Mockery
  • Ridicule
  • Contempt
  • Scorn
  • Jeering
  • Disdain
  • Taunting
  • Sneering

Antonyms

  • Respect
  • Admiration
  • Approval
  • Praise
  • Esteem
  • Regard
  • Appreciation
  • Honor

Related

  • Mock
  • Satire
  • Criticism
  • Insult
  • Disparagement
  • Belittlement
  • Scornfulness
  • Taunt

🌐 🇬🇧 DERISION in other languages

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