taunt etymology

Etymology:

The word "taunt" comes from the Middle English "tanten" or "tanten," meaning "to mock or scorn."

Meaning:

A taunt is a remark or gesture intended to provoke or irritate someone. It is a form of verbal or non-verbal aggression designed to humiliate or undermine a person's self-esteem.

Origin:

The origin of the word "taunt" is uncertain, but it is believed to derive from one of the following sources:

• Indo-European root "tan-": This root means "to stretch" or "to extend." It could refer to the extension of one's tongue or arm in a mocking gesture.
• Old Norse "tanta": This word means "to undermine" or "to spoil." It may have been used to describe the act of belittling or disparaging someone.
• French "tencer": This word means "to argue" or "to quarrel." It could have evolved into "taunt" through a process of linguistic change.

The earliest known use of "taunt" in English appeared in the early 14th century. Over time, its meaning broadened from "to mock or scorn" to include any form of provocation or irritation.

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