Pronunciation: [tˈɔːntɪŋlɪ] (IPA) 
The word "tauntingly" is spelled as /ˈtɔːntɪŋli/. Here, the first syllable "taunt" is pronounced as /tɔːnt/, which rhymes with "daunt". The second syllable "ing" is pronounced as /ɪŋ/, which represents the sound of the present participle ending. Finally, the last syllable "-ly" is pronounced as /li/, which means "in a manner of". Thus, the word "tauntingly" is spelled as /ˈtɔːntɪŋli/, which means in a manner of teasing or mockery.
Tauntingly is an adverb derived from the verb "taunt." It is used to describe something done in a manner that is intended to provoke, ridicule, or mock someone, often through sarcastic or scornful remarks or actions. When someone behaves tauntingly, they purposefully engage in actions that seek to belittle or challenge someone else, typically in an antagonistic way.
The term implies a deliberate intent to provoke an emotional or psychological reaction in another individual. This can be achieved through various means, such as using mockery, sarcasm, or playful teasing in a way that is designed to annoy or irritate the recipient. Tauntingly is frequently associated with behaviors that exhibit a haughty or smug attitude, aiming to disrupt, unsettle, or humiliate others.
In both verbal and non-verbal contexts, someone may use tauntingly expressions or gestures that are meant to provoke a response, often intending to elicit anger, frustration, or embarrassment from their target. These actions may be seen in a variety of settings, including schools, sports fields, or everyday social interactions.
Overall, tauntingly refers to actions done in a manner that intentionally aims to deride, provoke, or agitate someone else.
The word tauntingly is derived from the verb taunt, which traces back to Middle English and Old French influence. The Middle English term taunten meant to provoke or reproach, and it can be linked to the Old French word tant, meaning so much or so great. Eventually, taunt evolved into an adjective, taunting, which gave rise to the adverb form tauntingly.
