Pronunciation: [skˈɒfɪŋ] (IPA) 
The word "scoffing" is spelled with two Fs, not a single F, despite the similar sound to "coughing." The IPA phonetic transcription for "scoff" is /skɒf/, which indicates the /sk/ sound blend before the long /ɒ/ vowel. The addition of the suffix -ing changes the pronunciation, but not the spelling, of the word to /ˈskɒf.ɪŋ/. This can be confusing for English learners, but paying attention to the spelling is key to avoid common errors.
Scoffing is a behavior or action characterized by expressing contempt, mockery, or derision towards something or someone. It refers to the act of belittling, ridiculing, or dismissing a person, idea, opinion, or belief with sarcasm, scorn, or scornful laughter.
In essence, scoffing involves openly expressing one's disdain or disbelief, often through scornful comments, laughter, or facial expressions, to communicate a sense of superiority or to invalidate the subject in question. It is an act of making fun or scoffing at someone or something, typically by contending that they are ridiculous, foolish, or unworthy of consideration.
The intent behind scoffing may vary, but it often serves to undermine or diminish the significance, credibility, or value of a person's thoughts, actions, or beliefs. Scoffing can be used as a means of expressing skepticism, disagreement, or disapproval towards another person's statements or ideas, often implying that they lack intelligence, knowledge, or reason.
It is important to note that scoffing is generally regarded as a negative or disrespectful behavior, hindering open-mindedness, constructive dialogue, and understanding. Engaging in scoffing can lead to the development of hostility, animosity, and division among individuals or groups.
Overall, scoffing involves a dismissive or mocking attitude that seeks to challenge, ridicule, or belittle the subject in question, commonly used to express contempt, disagreement, or disbelief towards someone's ideas, opinions, or statements.
• The act of treating with scorn.
• Treating with reproachful language.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "scoffing" originates from the Middle English term "scoffen", which emerged in the late 14th century. It likely derived from the Old Norse word "skopa", meaning "to scorn" or "to mock". The Old Norse term might have influenced the Middle English word, leading to the evolution and usage of "scoffing" in the English language.
