scoff
The audience scoffed at the actor's terrible performance.
The audience laughed mockingly at the actor's bad acting.
To express contempt or derision, often through laughter or mocking remarks.
He scoffed at the idea of working overtime for no extra pay.
He laughed mockingly at the suggestion of working extra hours without pay.
The critics scoffed at the director's latest film.
The critics ridiculed the director's newest movie.
Often used to describe a dismissive or contemptuous reaction.
To eat or drink something quickly or greedily.
She scoffed down her lunch before rushing to the meeting.
She ate her lunch very quickly before going to the meeting.
Less common usage, often used with 'down' or 'up' (e.g., 'scoff down').
Pro Tip
Context Matters
'Scoff' is often used in informal contexts to describe mocking behavior. Be mindful of the tone when using it.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'scoven' (to reject with contempt), possibly from Old Norse 'skaufr' (mockery).
Usage Notes
Most commonly used to describe verbal or facial expressions of contempt. The eating/drinking sense is less frequent and often informal.