heckle Definition
- 1interrupt (a public speaker) with derisive or aggressive comments or abuse
- 2harass (someone) persistently with critical or questioning comments
Using heckle: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "heckle" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The comedian was heckled by a member of the audience.
Example
The politician was heckled during his speech.
Example
She was constantly heckled by her boss for her work performance.
heckle Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using heckle
Example
The boss gave him hell for being late to work again.
Example
The protesters raised hell outside the government building.
Example
He knew he was going to catch hell from his parents when they found out he had failed his exam.
Phrases with heckle
heckle and jeckle
two cartoon magpies known for their mischievous behavior and constant bickering
Example
My brother and I used to watch Heckle and Jeckle cartoons when we were kids.
to persuade or force someone to do something by constantly criticizing or questioning them
Example
The coach heckled the team into working harder and improving their performance.
to shout out comments or insults during a performance, usually in an attempt to disrupt it
Example
The audience members were warned not to heckle the comedian during his show.
Origins of heckle
originally referred to combing flax or hemp fibers, from Middle English 'hekelen'
Summary: heckle in Brief
The verb 'heckle' [ˈhɛk(ə)l] means to interrupt a public speaker with abusive comments or to persistently harass someone with critical comments. It can be used in various contexts such as politics, comedy shows, and work environments. Phrases like 'heckle and jeckle' and 'heckle a performer' are also common. Idioms like 'give someone hell' and 'raise hell' are related to the concept of causing trouble or receiving criticism.
