by Larstait November 14, 2003
Main Entry: de·ri·sion
Pronunciation: di-'ri-zh&n
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French, from Late Latin derision-, derisio, from Latin deridEre
1 a : the use of ridicule or scorn to show contempt b : a state of being derided
2 : an object of ridicule or scorn
Pronunciation: di-'ri-zh&n
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French, from Late Latin derision-, derisio, from Latin deridEre
1 a : the use of ridicule or scorn to show contempt b : a state of being derided
2 : an object of ridicule or scorn
Using a word or words in a way to lower them in your view or the view of others. "He used a term of derision about him that I can't repeat here."
by Timothy Payne November 28, 2005