derisive

Also de·ri·so·ry

[dih-rahy-siv, -ris-iv]

adjective

1. characterized by or expressing derision; contemptuous; mocking.

   derisive heckling.

derisive

/ dɪˈraɪsɪv, -zɪv /

adjective

1. showing or characterized by derision; mocking; scornful

Other Word Forms

• derisiveness noun
• derisively adverb
• nonderisive adjective
• overderisive adjective
• overderisively adverb
• overderisiveness noun
• underisive adjective
• underisively adverb
• underisiveness noun
• underisory adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of derisive¹

First recorded in 1655–65; deris(ion) + -ive

Example Sentences

In addition, Rolfe's "derisive attitudes" toward female colleagues and some superiors, as well as his "contempt for bush cops", may have influenced his actions the day he shot Walker, Judge Armitage found.

From BBC

Despite this commercial growth, Rebeka says broader attitudes remain derisive - particularly when it comes to "spicy" titles.

From BBC

It was punctuated by passive-aggressive jabs, snide comments and, upon Trump's return to the White House, the president's derisive reference to "Governor Trudeau" and repeated talk of turning Canada into America's "cherished 51st state".

From BBC

American democracy cannot survive four more years of derisive laughter at the expense of our unity.

From Salon

Biden, speaking of a derisive joke about Puerto Rico that a comedian made at a Trump rally on Sunday, appeared to refer to Trump supporters as “garbage”.

From BBC

Related Words

• cheeky 
• disdainful 
• insulting 
• mocking 
• rude 
• sarcastic 
• scornful