# roasting

/ˈɹoʊstɪŋ/ (US) · /ɹˈəʊstɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/roasting
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a situation where someone criticizes you very strongly or makes fun of you in a harsh way. It is often used when friends or coworkers are being very mean but in a joking or competitive manner.

For teachers: a severe or harsh criticism; a verbal attack or mocking. Often used in social contexts to describe a public or intense reprimand.

## Examples

- He got a roasting from his boss for being late again.
- After his team lost the championship, the captain had to endure a roasting from the local sports media.
- The comedian's set was essentially a relentless roasting of the front row, though the audience's laughter suggested the insults were taken in good spirits.

## Usage notes

- Commonly follows the verbs 'get' or 'give'.

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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.