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heckling

|heck/ling|

B2

/ˈhɛk.lɪŋ/

(heckle)

interrupt with derision

Base Form3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleNoun
hecklehecklesheckledheckledhecklingheckler
Etymology
Etymology Information

'heckle' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'hekelen,' where 'hekelen' meant 'to comb (flax or hemp)'.

Historical Evolution

'hekelen' transformed into the modern English word 'heckle' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to comb flax or hemp,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'interrupting a speaker with derisive comments'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

interrupt (a public speaker) with derisive or aggressive comments or abuse.

The comedian was heckled by a member of the audience.

Synonyms

jeertauntinterrupt

Antonyms

applaudpraise

Examples

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Idioms

heckle and jeckle

Last updated: 2025/01/27 16:36