# mockery

/ˈmɑkɝi/ (US) · /mˈɒkəɹi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mockery
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. ridicule or teasing

noun · CEFR B2

unkind laughter or behavior that makes someone or something look stupid.

For teachers: the act of mocking; derision or ridicule intended to disparage the subject.

- He couldn't stand the constant mockery from his classmates about his old shoes.
- The politician's speech was met with open mockery from the press, who pointed out several obvious contradictions in his argument.

### 2. a bad imitation or travesty

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

something that is so poorly done that it is an insult to what it should be.

For teachers: a ridiculous or insulting imitation; a travesty that fails to meet basic standards of quality or justice.

- The trial was a mockery of justice because the judge had already decided the result.
- Critics argued that the low-budget remake was a mockery of the original film, lacking both the heart and the technical skill of the 1960s version.

Usage: Often used in the phrase 'make a mockery of something'.

## Examples

- His constant mockery of the teacher got him into trouble.
- The comedian's mockery of the politician's speech was so accurate that the audience couldn't stop laughing.
- The trial was a complete mockery of justice, as the judge had clearly decided on the verdict before the defense had even presented its first witness.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.