To deride someone or something is not merely to criticize or insult them, but to lower them (or attempt to lower them) in others’ esteem by making them appear ridiculous or worthy of mockery.
The verb deride means to speak to someone with contempt or show a low opinion of someone or something. A bully might constantly deride other kids in his class — which might lead to many afternoons spent in the principal's office.
Add to word list to show that you think someone or something is ridiculous or of no value: His blustery style is derided by many political pros. (Definition of deride from the Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)
deride (third-person singular simple present derides, present participle deriding, simple past and past participle derided) (transitive) To laugh at or mock (someone or something) harshly; to ridicule, to scorn.
If you deride someone or something, you say that they are stupid or have no value. Critics derided the move as too little, too late.
deride (dɪˈraɪd) vb (tr) to speak of or treat with contempt, mockery, or ridicule; scoff or jeer at [C16: from Latin dērīdēre to laugh to scorn, from de- + rīdēre to laugh, smile]
Definition of deride verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.
Deride Synonym: Words That Mean the Same 😂 Deride Synonyms: Words That Mean the Same (With Examples & Usage Tips) TL;DR: If you want to mock, ridicule, or laugh at someone with more flair than “deride,” this guide breaks down 20+ synonyms —from mild to harsh—along with usage examples and context tips to pick the perfect word.