Langimage
English

mocking

|mock/ing|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈmɑːkɪŋ/

🇬🇧

/ˈmɒkɪŋ/

(mock)

to ridicule or imitate

Base FormPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleNounNounAdjectiveAdverb
mockmocksmocksmockedmockedmockingmockerymockingmockingmockingly
Etymology
Etymology Information

'mock' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'mocken', and is related to Old French 'moquer' meaning 'to deride or make fun of'.

Historical Evolution

'mock' changed from Middle English 'mocken', influenced by Old French 'moquer', and eventually became the modern English word 'mock'.

Meaning Changes

Initially it meant 'to make fun of or deride', and over time it has retained that core sense, extending to describe tones or expressions that convey ridicule.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the act or practice of mocking; derision or scorn (gerund/uncountable use).

The mocking from the audience hurt his confidence.

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Verb 1

present participle of 'mock': to tease, make fun of, or ridicule someone or something.

The students were mocking the new student behind his back.

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Adjective 1

expressing contempt or ridicule; characterized by scornful imitation (e.g., a mocking tone or smile).

She gave him a mocking smile when he failed the test.

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Last updated: 2025/12/07 15:14