Deride Meaning and Definition
Deride
Pronunciation
/ˈdaɪd/
Part of Speech
Verb
Definition
To speak or write in a scornful or contemptuous manner, expressing disapproval or disdain.
Examples
- The comedian’s jokes were met with laughter, except when he derided the mayor’s policies.
- The critics derided the new movie, calling it a waste of time.
Synonyms
- Ridicule
- Disparage
- Scorn
Antonyms
- Praise
- Commend
Additional Information
Deriding someone or something can be a sensitive topic, as it can be perceived as hurtful or offensive. However, it can also be a effective way to express disagreement or disapproval in a constructive manner.
Deride is often used in professional settings, such as in the context of criticism or feedback, to help improve quality or performance. It is also used in social commentary to critique societal norms or institutions.
Etymology
Deride is derived from the Old French word “deider”, meaning “to despise” or “to disdain”, which is in turn derived from the Latin word “deiderare”, meaning “to hate” or “to abhor”.
Usage Notes
When using deride, it’s important to be precise and clear in your language, as the tone and intent behind the word can easily be misinterpreted.
It’s also important to consider the context in which the word is being used, as it can have different connotations in different cultures or societies.
Cultural References
Deride has been used in various forms of media, such as literature, film, and television, to convey a wide range of emotions and ideas.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Don’t deride the efforts of others”
- “Derid the flaws, not the person”
Related Words or Phrases
- Scorn
- Contempt
- Ridicule
Collocations
- Deride someone’s opinions
- Deride a particular policy
Frequency of Use
Deride is a somewhat formal verb and is less commonly used in everyday conversations. However, it is widely used in written communication, such as in literature and journalism.
Common Misspellings
- Deirde
- Derid
- Derried