verspotten
make fun of · mock
Jemanden absichtlich auslachen oder schlecht machen, um ihn zu verletzen oder ihn als dumm darzustellen.
Definition & meaning
The word verspotten means to mock, ridicule, or make fun of someone or something in a derisive and often unkind way. It involves pointing out perceived flaws, mistakes, or characteristics of a person to make them look foolish or to lower their dignity in the eyes of others. While it usually carries a negative or hurtful connotation, it can sometimes be used in a lighter, though still provocative, context.
Grammar & Word origin
Grammatically, verspotten is a weak (regular) transitive verb. This means it requires a direct object in the accusative case. Its principal parts are verspottet (third-person singular present), verspottete (simple past), and hat verspottet (present perfect).
The word is composed of two parts:
- The prefix ver-, which in this context functions as an intensifier or indicates the direction of an action toward an object, often with a negative result.
- The root verb spotten, which means to mock or to scoff. This root is derived from the noun Spott, meaning ridicule or scorn.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms: The most direct synonym is verhöhnen, which is often stronger and more malicious. Other synonyms include auslachen (to laugh at), belächeln (to smile at pityingly), necken (to tease, usually more playful), and hänseln (to taunt or tease, often used among children).
Antonyms: Opposite actions include ehren (to honor), loben (to praise), bewundern (to admire), and respektieren (to respect).
Make “verspotten” part of your vocabulary.
Build your German vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.
Examples
Er verspottet die anderen Kinder.verb
He makes fun of the other children.
Wir dürfen niemanden verspotten.verb
We must not mock anyone.
Keep exploring German
Learn words from the content you love.
Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).
Scan for iPhone & iPad