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Definition of laughingstock

laughingstock

/ˈlæf.ɪŋˌstɑːk/
laugh · ing · stock
Plural:laughingstocks
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laughingstock Lexical Profile

laughingstock Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person or thing that is subjected to general ridicule or derision.

Example

"After a series of public blunders, the administration became the laughingstock of the international community."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for laughingstock
Antonyms
View all antonyms for laughingstock

• Nearby Words

laughably
laugher
laughingly
laughingstock
laughingthrush
laughline
laughter

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 16th century from 'laughing' and 'stock' (originally meaning a wooden post or whipping-stock), referring to a fixed target at which ridicule is directed.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Laughingstock. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/laughingstock
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