What does scoffing mean?
Scoffing means mocking someone or treating their words, ideas, or claims with contemptuous ridicule. It commonly describes a derisive tone, laugh, remark, or manner, as in “scoffing at an argument” or “a scoffing response.” The word is more openly insulting than a neutral criticism, although its force can range from playful teasing to deliberate humiliation. As the present participle of “scoff,” it shows that an action is ongoing: a speaker may be “scoffing at a proposal,” while a “scoffing remark” mocks what has been said. The expression can be formal or literary, but it is also natural in conversation and informal writing. The related noun “scoffer” denotes a person who scoffs, and the associated image of someone dismissing a point with a laugh captures the word’s characteristic blend of amusement and contempt.
verbTo mock or express contemptuous dismissal of someone or something, often by treating their words or ideas with derision.
- Expressing ridicule or contemptuous mockery.
- Speaking or laughing in a derisive, dismissive manner.
"She was not angry so much as scoffing at the suggestion that the error mattered."
"The courtiers were scoffing at the young prince's unfamiliar accent."
"He replied with a scoffing laugh rather than a serious answer."
A scoff is more than a disagreement: it turns a serious point into an object of ridicule.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does scoffing come from?
“Scoffing” is the present-participle and gerund form of the verb “scoff,” a word recorded in English since the early modern period. Its ultimate origin is uncertain, though it is often linked to Old Norse “skof,” meaning an insult or taunt. The modern senses developed from the idea of speaking with mockery and contempt, and the English -ing form came to be used for both the action and its accompanying attitude.
Related word forms
How scoffing is actually used
Scoffing is strongly derisive and implies contempt, amusement, or dismissal. It is used in ordinary speech and in literary or formal contexts, though it can sound more openly hostile than simply criticizing.
Easily confused with scoffing
Scoffing expresses ridicule or contempt, whereas scolding expresses anger and reprimand.
Scoffing is openly derisive, while sniffing refers more specifically to expressing contempt through a sneer or dismissive manner.