taunt
word
Definition
To say something in a mocking or insulting way to make someone angry, upset, or embarrassed.
Usage & Nuances
'Taunt' is mildly formal and often negative. Common collocations: 'taunt someone about', 'cruel taunt'. Do not confuse with 'tease', which can be playful, while 'taunt' is usually hurtful. Used for insults in sports or bullying.
Spanish: burlarse - provocarPortuguese (BR): zombar - provocarPortuguese (PT): troçar - provocarChinese (Simplified): 嘲讽 - 奚落Chinese (Traditional): 嘲諷 - 奚落Hindi: चिढ़ाना - ताना मारनाArabic: يسخر - يتهكم
Example Sentences
Don't let their words taunt you—just walk away.
natural
The boys taunt the new student at lunch.
basic
It is cruel to taunt animals in the zoo.
basic
He tried to ignore their taunts.
basic
She couldn't resist the urge to taunt her brother after winning the game.
natural
Fans from both teams began to taunt each other after the goal.
natural