English Dictionary

Definition of “derision

derision (dɪˈrɪʒənPronunciation for derision

Definitions

noun

  1. the act of deriding; mockery; scorn
  2. an object of mockery or scorn

Word Origin

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

Usage examples

  • There is a heavy silence around the table, except for an adenoidal snort of derision from Noon.
    Alex George, LOVE YOU MADLY (2002)
  • At the Atlanta Olympics, every move the Indian hockey team made was greeted with derision by a former captain.
    India Today (1997)
  • His insistence on formality, the trappings of office and ritual became a source of frustration and derision.
    New Zealand Herald (2003)
  • The appointment of Eriksson brought ridiculous, bigoted cries of derision from many corners.
    Sun, News of the World (2001)
  • She is unbelievable, and derision was in danger of making her burst out in raucous laughter.
    Doris Lessing, THE SWEETEST DREAM (2001)

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