a remark made in order to anger, wound, or provoke someone, to tease or make fun of someone in a mocking way

throw down the gauntlet, take the bait, poke fun at

taunt with, taunt and jibe, taunt someone into doing something

Formal and Informal Expressions of taunt

In different contexts, you can replace 'taunt' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'provoke, ridicule' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'mock, tease' is a commonplace synonym.

taunt: Explore its Definition & Usage

taunt Definition

1a remark made in order to anger, wound, or provoke someone
2to tease or make fun of someone in a mocking way

Using taunt: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "taunt" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The other kids would taunt him about his weight.
Example
He was taunted with the nickname 'four-eyes'.
Example
The opposing team's fans began taunting the players.
Example
She was taunted by her classmates for being different.

taunt Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for taunt

Antonyms for taunt

Idioms Using taunt

throw down the gauntlet
to issue a challenge to someone
Example
The CEO threw down the gauntlet and challenged his employees to come up with a new product idea.
take the bait
to react to someone's taunts or provocations
Example
He took the bait and responded angrily to their taunts.
poke fun at
to tease or make fun of someone in a lighthearted way
Example
They were poking fun at each other's accents.

Phrases with taunt

taunt with
to use something as a means of teasing or provoking someone
Example
He taunted her with her poor grades.
taunt and jibe
to mock or ridicule someone with words or actions
Example
The bullies taunted and jibed at him until he broke down in tears.
taunt someone into doing something
to provoke or challenge someone to do something through taunts or insults
Example
The coach taunted the team into playing harder.

Origins of taunt

from Old French 'tanter', meaning 'to tempt'

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Summary: taunt in Brief

The verb 'taunt' [tɔːnt] refers to teasing or making fun of someone in a mocking way. It can also mean to provoke or anger someone with a remark. Examples include 'The other kids would taunt him about his weight.' and 'She was taunted by her classmates for being different.' Phrases like 'taunt with' and idioms like 'throw down the gauntlet' extend the meaning of 'taunt.'