Definition

In a way that shows someone is being made fun of or ridiculed.

Example

She laughed mockingly at his attempt to sing.

Conversation

Did you hear how she spoke mockingly about his new haircut?

Yeah, I thought that was a bit harsh of her.

I know, right? It's not like he asked for her opinion.

Exactly! People should just keep their comments to themselves sometimes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mockingly → It is formed from "mock" (from Middle English *mocken*, meaning to make fun of) and "-ingly" (a suffix used to form adverbs indicating manner). The word "mockingly" means in a manner that makes fun of or ridicules someone or something.

Memory Tip

Think of someone making fun of another in a specific way — that's what 'mockingly' means, as it describes the manner of mocking.

Visually Confused Words