taunt

[tawnt, tahnt] / tɔnt, tɑnt /

NOUN

provocation; teasing

Synonyms

STRONGEST

barb derision gibe insult jab jeer put down ridicule

STRONG

brickbat censure comeback crack cut dig dump mockery outrage reproach sarcasm slam slap swipe

WEAK

backhanded compliment dirty dig parting shot snappy comeback

Antonyms

STRONGEST

commendation compliment flattery praise

STRONG

approval respect

VERB

provoke, reproach; tease

Synonyms

STRONGEST

deride insult jeer mock offend ridicule torment

STRONG

affront bother dig disdain flout jab lout outrage quiz rally revile scorn scout slam slap sneer tantalize twitter upbraid

WEAK

dump on put down scoff at swipe at

Antonyms

STRONGEST

compliment flatter please praise

STRONG

admire approve ignore respect

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The residents cheer and taunt and follow from a safe distance.

From Slate • Feb. 11, 2026

Some would openly taunt ICE officers by waving through the window or passing notes under the door.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 22, 2026

"Where is my new car, Land Rover," the hackers - who are thought to be teens - posted to taunt the company.

From BBC • Sep. 3, 2025

Especially when a proper taunt might give you an edge, or at least a good laugh.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 14, 2025

Thankfully all it does is taunt them with an “I know something you don’t know...”

From "Amari and the Night Brothers" by B.B. Alston