The first thing we are going to do, before entering fully into the meaning of the term mockery, is to know its etymological origin. In this case, we have to emphasize that there are different theories about it.
Thus, for example, on the one hand there are those who believe that it derives from Germanic. Exactly from the verb "mupfen", which can be translated as "wrinkle the nose". However, on the other hand, there are those who think that it actually comes from Italian. More specifically from the word "muso", which refers to the nose.
The term mock refers to making fun : that is, to mock . Mocking, therefore, means making gestures or expressing something to annoy a person and laugh at or with them.
For example: «Do you like my new hairstyle? They can mock, if they want..." , "You don't have to mock other people's misfortunes," "The boxer mocked his rival again and accused him of behaving like a scared child."
Among the many words that can function as synonyms for mocking, in addition to those already mentioned, there are others such as humiliate, despise, disdain, ridicule, buffoon, offend or even mock. On the contrary, among its antonyms we find terms such as respect or praise, among others.
An individual can mock another for multiple reasons. Generally it is a joke that aims to cause fun although without bad intentions. The idea is not to cause suffering or discomfort to others, but to generate laughter.
However, it is also possible to taunt with the will to harm . Mocking can be painful for the recipient, whether due to its theme, its characteristics, etc. If someone tries to make fun of a young man without legs to humiliate him, for example, it will not be funny; On the contrary, it is likely to hurt the disabled boy and outrage other people.
Mocking oneself , on the other hand, is a common mechanism for many individuals. Suppose a man tries to prepare dinner and the food ends up burning. The subject, instead of getting angry or worried about what happened, decides to take a photograph of the preparation and then shares it on social networks stating, ironically, that he is a "great chef." In this way, the frustrated cook makes fun of himself and even leaves the door open for his contacts to make fun of him with funny comments.
It is considered that mocking oneself is a great measure to achieve inner peace as well as the capacity for self-criticism, kindness and even resilience. In order to reach that level, you must commit to carrying out measures such as these:
-We must reduce the levels of selfishness that we have as well as narcissism.
-It is necessary to have self-criticism, but within appropriate limits. That is, you have to criticize yourself, but not beat yourself up.
-We must also encourage a sense of humor and laughing at oneself at healthy levels. It is considered that carrying out this measure is a great measure to maintain optimal mental health.