ribbing

¹

[rib-ing]

noun

1. ribs rib collectively.

2. an assemblage or arrangement of ribs, rib, as in cloth or a ship.

ribbing

²

[rib-ing]

noun

1. an act or instance of teasing.

ribbing

/ ˈrɪbɪŋ /

noun

1. a framework or structure of ribs

2. ribs collectively

3. a raised pattern in woven or knitted material, made in knitting by doing purl and plain stitches alternately

Word History and Origins

Origin of ribbing¹

First recorded in 1555–65; rib ¹ + -ing ¹

Origin of ribbing²

First recorded in 1930–35; rib ² + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Political cartooning is a dying art, usurped by illustrations that trade intelligent ribbing for low-brow button pushing — or, equally as startling, memes that require minimal effort to make.

From Salon

“We wanted the ribbing to be perfect. We did so many different variations of it with the text and the size and getting it perfect.”

From Los Angeles Times

There’s plenty of good-natured ribbing as they talk about the early interviews they’ve completed at the event.

From Los Angeles Times

It worked, with Boston.com reporting that Leo gave the couple a good-natured ribbing once he found out where they are from.

From Los Angeles Times

In between, the comedian and former late-night host delivered a sharply written segment that gave tribute to the ceremony’s nominees while also subjecting many of the attendees to some good-natured ribbing.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• banter 
• taunt 
• taunting