tease

teɪz

Definitions

1. verb

to treat someone with mild or playful cruelty, often by mocking or making fun of them

“The kids were teasing each other in the playground.”

2. verb

to tempt or entice someone, often in a way that is slightly improper or unkind

“The salesman tried to tease her into buying the expensive watch.”

3. noun

a gentle or playful mocking, often used to describe a joke or a witty remark

“The comedian’s tease about the politician’s hair was met with laughter from the audience.”

4. noun

a temptation or an enticement, often used to describe something that is slightly improper or unkind

“The ad was a tease for the new product, showing its features without revealing its price.”

5. noun

a thread or a strip of fabric, often used in sewing or embroidery

“The seamstress used a tease to reinforce the hem of the dress.”

Synonyms

  • deride
  • gibe
  • jibe
  • mock
  • torment

Antonyms

  • admire
  • praise