The phrase "makes laughing stock" is used to describe something or someone that becomes a source of ridicule or amusement. The word "laughing" is spelled with a short vowel sound /æ/ followed by the consonant cluster /f/ and a long vowel sound /ɪŋ/. The word "stock" is spelled with a short vowel sound /ɒ/ followed by the consonant cluster /k/ and a final /k/ sound. The IPA phonetic transcription for "makes laughing stock" is /meɪks ˈlæfɪŋ stɒk/.
The phrase "makes a laughing stock" is an idiom that refers to the act of causing someone or something to become the object of ridicule or mockery. It describes the action or behavior that leads to others finding amusement or derision at someone else's expense.
To "make a laughing stock" implies exposing someone or something to public humiliation or embarrassment, eliciting laughter, taunting, or teasing. This can occur through actions, statements, or characteristics that are perceived as foolish, absurd, ridiculous, or pitifully inadequate. The phrase implies that the subject becomes a source of entertainment, often due to their own ineptitude, incompetence, or lack of judgment.
When an individual or entity "makes a laughing stock" of themselves, they become a figure of amusement, as others revel in their misfortune, folly, or perceived shortcomings. This can have a negative impact on the person's reputation, self-esteem, or credibility, as they are now marked by public ridicule and seen as a subject of mockery.
In summary, "makes a laughing stock" describes the action of exposing someone or something to public ridicule and derision, resulting in mockery, laughter, or teasing at their expense. It reflects a situation in which an individual or entity's behavior or characteristics are perceived as foolish, absurd, or inadequate, thus inviting ridicule and making themselves a subject of amusement.