bemock: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Low (archaic/poetic)Literary, archaic
Quick answer
What does “bemock” mean?
To treat with scorn or ridicule.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To treat with scorn or ridicule; to mock derisively.
To insult or belittle someone or something through scornful imitation or words.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in usage or meaning. The word is equally archaic and literary in both varieties.
Connotations
Equally strong archaic/literary flavour in both regions.
Frequency
Extremely rare in contemporary speech and writing in both BrE and AmE. Found almost exclusively in historical texts, poetry, or deliberate archaisms.
Grammar
How to Use “bemock” in a Sentence
[Subject] bemocks [Object][Subject] bemocks [Object] as [noun phrase/adjective]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bemock” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The critics proceeded to bemock the playwright's latest work.
- He would often bemock their outdated customs.
American English
- The bully took every opportunity to bemock his classmates.
- Politicians should not bemock the sincerely held beliefs of their constituents.
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Rare, may appear in literary or historical analysis.
Everyday
Not used in contemporary everyday conversation.
Technical
Not applicable.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bemock”
- Using it in modern speech/writing.
- Confusing it with 'beckon' or 'befuddle'.
- Using it without the necessary connotation of contempt.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is considered archaic or highly literary. You will almost never hear it in everyday conversation.
Semantically, they are very similar. 'Bemock' is an older, more intensive form. In modern usage, 'mock' is the standard term, while 'bemock' adds an archaic or poetic flavour.
No. Due to its archaic nature and strong connotation of contempt, it is not suitable for light-hearted teasing. It implies serious derision.
While theoretically possible, 'bemockery' is not a standard, attested word. The noun from 'bemock' would simply be 'mockery'.
To treat with scorn or ridicule.
Bemock is usually literary, archaic in register.
Bemock: in British English it is pronounced /bɪˈmɒk/, and in American English it is pronounced /bɪˈmɑːk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to this verb.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'BEing MOCKed' intensely = BEMOCK.
Conceptual Metaphor
MOCKERY IS A WEAPON (to bemock is to attack verbally).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the verb 'bemock' most appropriately used?