What does ridicule mean Meaning and Definition
What does ridicule mean
Pronunciation
/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
Ridicule refers to the act of mocking or scornfully treating someone or something, often in a way that is meant to belittle or humiliate.
Etymology
The word “ridicule” originates from the Latin “ridiculum”, meaning “something laughable” or “something ridiculous”. It has evolved to encompass a range of negative emotions, including contempt, scorn, and disdain.
Usage Notes
Ridicule is often used to describe behavior that is considered unfairly mean-spirited or cruel. It can also apply to situations where someone is being mocked or teased in a way that is intended to be hurtful or embarrassing.
Cultural References
Ridicule has been a theme in many forms of media, including literature, film, and theater. For example, William Shakespeare’s play “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” features a character named Lysander who is subject to ridicule by the other characters.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- To make fun of someone or something
- To treat someone with contempt
- To scorn someone or something
Related Words or Phrases
- Mockery
- Sarcasm
- Insult
Collocations
- Ridicule someone’s idea
- Ridicule someone’s appearance
- Ridicule someone’s opinions
Frequency of Use
Ridicule is a relatively common word in modern language, particularly in situations where people are discussing or experiencing mean-spirited behavior.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of ridicule include “ridcul” and “ridicel”.