derisive

adjective

de·​ri·​sive di-ˈrī-siv How to pronounce derisive (audio)
-ziv;
-ˈri-ziv, 
-ˈri-siv How to pronounce derisive (audio)
Synonyms of derisive
: expressing or causing contemptuous ridicule or scorn : expressing or causing derision
derisive laughter
Given such follies …, it's easy to be derisive of Jerry Lewis …—James Wolcott
derisively adverb
derisiveness noun

Synonyms of derisive

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Examples of derisive in a Sentence

the derisive performances of some of the singers on the talent show
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The revelation quickly made headlines, and the social-media peanut gallery was sharply derisive. — Emma Sandler, Vogue, 15 Dec. 2025 There is nothing quite like experiencing a truly terrible film with a room full of gleefully derisive bad-movie fans. — Randy McMullen, Mercury News, 30 Oct. 2025 The series has since aired four episodes, with two to go, and fans are hailing Ings as the new Peter Dinklage — witty, derisive, a touch irascible. — Shannon Keating, Vulture, 12 Feb. 2026 This was met by derisive laughter in the locker room, where, coincidentally, the director of the FBI was chugging a beer and joining in the uproar. — Dp Opinion, Denver Post, 28 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for derisive

Word History

Etymology

see derision

First Known Use

circa 1662, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of derisive was circa 1662

Rhymes for derisive

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Browse Nearby Words

derision
derisive
derisively
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Cite this Entry

“Derisive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/derisive. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on derisive

Nglish: Translation of derisive for Spanish Speakers

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