French word

dérision

Pronunciation

IPA/deʁizjɔ̃/

Meaning

  • feminine nounridicule

Example

Elle a subi la dérision de ses collègues.

She was subjected to ridicule from her colleagues.

Illustration for dérision (ridicule)

More examples

Les internautes ont tourné en dérision la vidéo.

Internet users mocked the video.

Core concept

A contemptuous performance that turns someone into an object of ridicule.

Common phrases

  • tourner en dérision

    hold ___ up to ridicule

  • prendre en dérision

    mock ___

Similar words

moquerie: Mocking words or behavior intended to make someone look foolish.
ridicule: The act of making someone seem absurd or laughable.
sarcasme: Sharp, ironic remarks aimed at hurting or attacking someone.

Definition in French

Exprime le ridicule infligé par des paroles ou des gestes méprisants, souvent avec l'intention de blesser.

Word origin

Dérision comes through Old French from Latin dērīsiō, from dērīdēre, 'to mock', formed with de- and rīdēre, 'to laugh'.

Usage tips

  • Dérision is more formal or literary than everyday French; spoken French often uses se moquer de or tourner en dérision.

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word