derision

[dih-rizh-uhn]

noun

1. ridicule; mockery.

   The inept performance elicited derision from the audience.

2. an object of ridicule.

derision

/ dɪˈrɪʒən /

noun

1. the act of deriding; mockery; scorn

2. an object of mockery or scorn

Other Word Forms

• derisible adjective
• nonderisible adjective
• underisible adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of derision¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English derisioun, from Old French derision, from Late Latin dērīsiōn-, stem of dērīsiō, from Latin dērīs(us) “mocked” (past participle of dērīdēre “to mock”; deride ) + -iō -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of derision¹

C15: from Late Latin dērīsiō, from Latin dērīsus; see _deride

Example Sentences

More broadly, there are howls of derision when England get thumped in a limited-overs tournament, or are clueless when it comes to batting against and bowling spin.

From BBC

This attempt to declare “Trump Derangement Syndrome” a mental illness per Minnesota law was widely met with mockery and derision.

From Salon

Some on social media site Nextdoor greeted the Steadfast LA announcement with derision.

From Los Angeles Times

VanDyke’s unusual and perhaps unprecedented decision to cut a video explaining his dissent was met with derision from his colleagues.

From Los Angeles Times

Hunter’s opinion prompted widespread derision on social media and incredulity among talking heads.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• contempt 
• disdain 
• disrespect 
• laughter 
• mockery 
• ridicule 
• scorn