Correct spelling for the English word "makes laughingstock" is [mˌe͡ɪks lˈafɪŋstˌɒk], [mˌeɪks lˈafɪŋstˌɒk], [m_ˌeɪ_k_s l_ˈa_f_ɪ_ŋ_s_t_ˌɒ_k] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
The phrase "makes laughingstock" refers to the act of causing someone or something to become a source of ridicule, mockery, or amusement. It implies that the subject in question has become an object of laughter or derision due to its perceived stupidity, incompetence, or absurdity.
When someone or something "makes laughingstock," it becomes the target of jokes, jests, or sarcastic comments, often drawing attention to their shortcomings, foolishness, or embarrassing actions. This can occur in various contexts, such as in public, social, or professional settings, where the subject's actions, appearance, or ideas become the subject of widespread amusement or mockery.
The term emphasizes the notion that the subject has become a figure of amusement, with others finding their actions or traits so humorous or ludicrous that they can't help but derive pleasure from mocking or ridiculing them. Being made a laughingstock can significantly impact the subject's credibility, reputation, or self-esteem, as they are now associated with being a source of entertainment or laughter.
To summarize, making someone or something a laughingstock involves exposing them to ridicule and making them a target of mockery or amusement. The term encompasses the idea that the subject has become a figure of fun, drawing attention to their perceived foolishness or incompetence.
The phrase "makes laughingstock" consists of two main parts: "makes" and "laughingstock".
- "Makes" is the plural form of the verb "make", which comes from the Old English word "macian". It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "makōną", meaning "to make" or "to create".
- "Laughingstock" is a compound word. The first part, "laughing", comes from the verb "laugh", which is derived from the Old English word "hleahhan". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "hlēhanan". The second part, "stock", refers to something that is a target or object of derision or mockery. Its usage in this context comes from the figurative sense of "stock", which originally referred to a piece of wood, tree trunk, or log.