LAUGHINGSTOCK Meaning and
Definition
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A laughingstock refers to an individual, group, or entity that becomes a source of ridicule, mockery, or amusement due to their actions, appearance, or behavior. It is a noun derived from the combination of "laughing" and "stock," where "laughing" denotes an act of expressing amusement, while "stock" historically refers to an object of derision or ridicule.
When someone or something is regarded as a laughingstock, they are seen as a subject of contempt or disdain by others, often resulting in frequent and open laughter at their expense. This could arise from a variety of reasons, such as consistently failing or making foolish, absurd, or embarrassing mistakes. The term is often associated with public figures or popular figures whose missteps or peculiarities become the target of public jest.
Being considered a laughingstock can bring about feelings of humiliation, isolation, or social exclusion. The targeted individual or group may find it challenging to regain their reputation or regain the respect of others. Often, the actions or behavior that lead to being labeled a laughingstock are perceived as lacking judgment, awareness, or common sense.
The concept of a laughingstock has existed throughout history in various forms, and it continues to be a prevalent social phenomenon in modern society. It is important to note that while the idea behind laughingstock is rooted in amusement at the expense of others, it is essential to exercise empathy and respect towards individuals who may find themselves in this vulnerable position.
Common Misspellings for LAUGHINGSTOCK
- kaughingstock
- paughingstock
- oaughingstock
- lzughingstock
- lsughingstock
- lwughingstock
- lqughingstock
- layghingstock
- lahghingstock
- lajghingstock
- laighingstock
- la8ghingstock
- la7ghingstock
- laufhingstock
- lauvhingstock
- laubhingstock
- lauhhingstock
- lauyhingstock
Etymology of LAUGHINGSTOCK
The word "laughingstock" originated from the combination of two separate words: "laughing" and "stock".
The term "laughing" comes from the Old English word "hleahhan", which means "to laugh". It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "klahjanan".
The word "stock" in this context refers to a wooden beam or a log. In Old English, it was written as "stocc" and derived from the Proto-Germanic word "stukkaz".
The combination of these two words creates "laughingstock", which refers to an object of ridicule or a person who is the subject of laughter, often due to their foolishness, mistakes, or embarrassment.
Idioms with the word LAUGHINGSTOCK
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laughingstock
The definition of the idiom "laughingstock" is a person or thing that becomes an object of ridicule or mockery, often due to being seen as ridiculous, absurd, or deserving of laughter.
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make a laughingstock of
The idiom "make a laughingstock of" refers to the act of causing someone or something to become a source of ridicule or mockery. It means to behave in a way that undermines the person's or thing's dignity, reputation, or credibility, resulting in others finding amusement or entertainment at their expense.
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make a laughingstock of (oneself or something)
The idiom "make a laughingstock of oneself or something" means to behave or perform in a way that makes oneself or something else an object of ridicule or mockery. It refers to actions or behavior that cause others to laugh or mock, often due to clumsiness, incompetence, or foolishness.
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make a laughingstock of (oneself or sth)
The idiom "make a laughingstock of (oneself or sth)" means to become a source of ridicule, mockery, or amusement due to one's own foolish actions or the actions of something/someone associated with them. It implies that the person or thing has brought about embarrassment or public humiliation by behaving in a ridiculous or nonsensical way.
Similar spelling words for LAUGHINGSTOCK
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