Definition of derision

< de rigueur

derisive >

de·ri·sion    (d-rzhn) KEY 

NOUN:

1. 1. Contemptuous or jeering laughter; ridicule.
   2. A state of being derided: The proposal was held in derision by members of the board.
2. An object of ridicule; a laughingstock.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English derisioun, from Anglo-Norman, from Late Latin drsi, drsin-, from Latin drsus, past participle of drdre, to deride ; see deride