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scoff

verb

/skɒf/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of scoff

To express contempt, derision, or mockery towards something, often in a scornful and dismissive manner.
"He would often scoff at my ideas without giving them a fair chance."

Detailed meaning of scoff

When someone scoffs at an idea, statement, or concept, they are openly critical and ridiculing, expressing disbelief or disdain for it. Scoffing typically involves making sarcastic or scornful comments or gestures that belittle or reject the subject being scoffed at. This term conveys a sense of scornful disbelief or mockery, emphasizing a dismissive and often condescending attitude towards the object of derision. "Scoff" is often used to express disagreement or contemptuous rejection of someone else's perspective, often without offering a substantial counterargument.

Example sentences containing scoff

1. The skeptics would scoff at any mention of supernatural phenomena.
2. She would scoff at the notion of following traditional career paths.
3. He would scoff at the idea of eating healthy and exercise.
4. The critics would scoff at the artist's unconventional style.
5. They would scoff at the concept of love at first sight.
6. He would scoff at the suggestion of taking a break from work.

History and etymology of scoff

The verb 'scoff' has its etymological origins in Middle English. It is believed to have evolved from the Old Norse word 'skopa,' which means 'to scorn' or 'to deride.' In Middle English, it was spelled as 'skoffen' and used to describe the act of expressing contempt, derision, or mockery towards something, often in a scornful and dismissive manner. The term 'scoff' conveys the idea of not taking something seriously and openly ridiculing it, emphasizing the mocking and scornful nature of the expression.

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Further usage examples of scoff

1. She would scoff at the idea of seeking professional help for her problems.
2. The old man would scoff at modern technology, preferring the old ways.
3. They would scoff at the idea of traveling alone to unfamiliar places.
4. He would scoff at the notion of relying on luck rather than hard work.
5. She would scoff at the idea of settling down and starting a family.
6. The professor would scoff at theories that contradicted established knowledge.
7. He would scoff at anyone who claimed to have seen a UFO.
8. They would scoff at the idea of pursuing a creative career.
9. She would scoff at the suggestion of reading self-help books.
10. He would scoff at the idea of living a minimalist lifestyle.
11. They would scoff at the notion of spending money on experiences rather than possessions.
12. She would scoff at the idea of following societal norms and expectations.
13. He would scoff at the notion of relying on others for emotional support.
14. She couldn't help but scoff at the ridiculous conspiracy theories.
15. He would often scoff at the idea of a healthy lifestyle, opting for junk food.
16. Critics continued to scoff at the artist's unconventional approach.
17. Some people scoff at the notion of extraterrestrial life.
18. Don't scoff at the idea of change; it can lead to progress.
19. It's easy to scoff, but solving complex problems takes effort.
20. His coworkers would scoff whenever he mentioned his ambitious goals.
21. Despite the challenges, she didn't scoff at pursuing her dream career.
22. Experts scoffed at the initial design, but it turned out to be revolutionary.
23. Many scoffed when he announced his plan, but he proved them wrong.
24. Instead of scoffing at differences, let's celebrate our diversity.