noun
Uncommon
teasing
TEEZ-ihng
Teasing (noun) means Playful or provoking behaviour directed at someone, often through jokes or ribbing. Example: “The teasing got out of hand and someone ended up in tears.”
noun
1
Playful or provoking behaviour directed at someone, often through jokes or ribbing.
"The teasing got out of hand and someone ended up in tears."
adj
1
Playfully provoking, especially through gentle mockery.
"The children exchanged teasing remarks during recess."
"She gave him a teasing smile before changing the subject."
How to use teasing
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe act of teasing, or something (a smile, remark) that teases.
Common pairings
playful teasing
a teasing remark
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Word forms
- Plural
- teasings
- Comparative
- more teasing
- Superlative
- most teasing
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ got out of hand and someone ended up in tears.
Etymology
From tease plus "-ing."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for teasing
casing
basing
easing
leasing
chasing
pleasing
phrasing
greasing
releasing
increasing
decreasing
purchasing
See all rhymes for teasing →
Frequently asked questions
What does “teasing” mean?
The word “teasing” means playful or provoking behaviour directed at someone, often through jokes or ribbing. In plain terms, the act of teasing, or something (a smile, remark) that teases.
How do you pronounce “teasing”?
“Teasing” is pronounced TEEZ-ihng (/ˈtiz.ɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “teasing” in a sentence?
Here is “teasing” used in a sentence: “The teasing got out of hand and someone ended up in tears.”
What part of speech is “teasing”?
Depending on how it is used, “teasing” can be a noun and an adjective.
Is “teasing” a common word?
“Teasing” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “teasing” have?
“Teasing” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: playful or provoking behaviour directed at someone, often through jokes or ribbing.
What is the difference between teasing and mocking?
Teasing is often playful and can be affectionate, poking fun at someone through jokes or gentle ribbing, while mocking usually carries a sharper, more contemptuous edge intended to belittle. Teasing can be lighthearted between friends, but mocking is generally read as unkind.
What is teasing behaviour typically like between friends?
Teasing behaviour is playful or provoking, often expressed through gentle jokes or mockery meant affectionately rather than cruelly, and it's commonly used between friends, family, or partners as a form of bonding. The tone and relationship between the people involved usually determine whether teasing feels friendly or hurtful.
Is teasing always meant to be unkind?
No, teasing is typically playful and provoking rather than deliberately cruel, though it can cross into unkindness depending on tone, context, and the relationship between those involved. The line between friendly teasing and hurtful behaviour often comes down to intent and how it's received.
