noun

teasing

TEEZ-ihng

noun

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

Playfully provoking, especially through gentle mockery.

"She gave him a teasing smile before changing the subject."

How to Use Teasing

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe act of teasing, or something (a smile, remark) that teases.

Common pairings

playful teasing a teasing remark

more teasing comparative, teasings plural, most teasing superlative

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Can you complete this real example?

The _____ got out of hand and someone ended up in tears.

From tease plus "-ing."

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