'mockery' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'mokerie' (formed from 'mock' + the suffix '-ery'). The verb 'mock' comes from Old French 'moquer' meaning 'to deride'.

'mockery' changed from Middle English 'mokerie' (also spelled 'mokery'), influenced by Old French 'moquerie', and eventually became the modern English word 'mockery'.

Initially it meant 'the act of mocking or deriding', and over time it has retained that core sense while also acquiring extended senses such as 'a ridiculous imitation' or 'a travesty'.