ribbing

(noun) a framework of ribs.

(noun) the act of harassing someone playfully or maliciously (especially by ridicule); provoking someone with persistent annoyances. Synonyms: tease, teasing, tantalization. Examples: "He ignored their teases." "His ribbing was gentle but persistent."

(verb) form vertical ribs by knitting. Synonyms: rib. Examples: "A ribbed sweater."

(verb) subject to laughter or ridicule. Synonyms: ridicule, roast, guy, blackguard, laugh at, jest at, rib, make fun, poke fun. Examples: "The satirists ridiculed the plans for a new opera house." "The students poked fun at the inexperienced teacher." "His former students roasted the professor at his 60th birthday."