laughingstock

word

Definition

A person or thing that is widely ridiculed and made fun of by others.

Usage & Nuances

Almost always used to describe public embarrassment, not private jokes. Often appears in 'become a laughingstock' or 'make someone a laughingstock.' Formal and literary, rarely used for light-hearted teasing.

Example Sentences

After the mistake, he felt like a laughingstock at work.

basic

They made her a laughingstock in front of the whole class.

basic

Don’t worry, you’re not a laughingstock.

basic

If I wear that costume, I’ll be the laughingstock of the party.

natural

His wild idea turned him into a laughingstock overnight.

natural

I’d rather fail quietly than become a laughingstock for everyone to see.

natural