English Dictionary

Definition of “taunt”

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1taunt1 (tɔːntPronunciation for taunt1) 

Definitions

verb (tr)

  1. to provoke or deride with mockery, contempt, or criticism
  2. to tease; tantalize

noun

  1. a jeering remark
  2. archaic the object of mockery

Alternative Forms

ˈtaunter noun ˈtaunting adjective ˈtauntingly adverb

Word Origin

C16: from French phrase tant pour tant like for like, rejoinder

2taunt2 (tɔːntPronunciation for taunt2) 

Definitions

adjective

  1. nautical (of the mast or masts of a sailing vessel) unusually tall

Word Origin

C15: of uncertain origin

Usage examples

  • If he could taunt Zegarnald into seeking her out, he might be able to prevail upon the Goddess of Love to release him.
    Jennifer Fallon, TREASON KEEP (2001)
  • The Daily Mirror taunt United by saying Fergie dream shattered by Jose's reject, Crespo being on loan from Chelsea.
    Megastar (2005)
  • As Griffey rolled on the ground in pain yesterday, outfielder Adam Dunn heard a couple of fans at the new ballpark taunt him.
    Edmonton Sun (2003)
  • 17 May 2004 RAY PARLOUR delighted the vast red `n" white Gooner army with a wicked taunt of arch-rivals Tottenham.
    Sun, News of the World (2004)
  • "; then, as the gist of the taunt dawned, he smiled, `Oh, yes, of course.
    Frank Delaney, Telling the Pictures (1993)

Commonness

All English words that begin with 'T'

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