taunting

(noun) aggravation by deriding or mocking or criticizing. Synonyms: twit, taunt.

(verb) harass with persistent criticism or carping. Synonyms: tease, razz, rag, cod, tantalize, tantalise, bait, taunt, twit, rally, ride. Examples: "The children teased the new teacher." "Don't ride me so hard over my failure." "His fellow workers razzed him when he wore a jacket and tie."

(adj) abusing vocally; expressing contempt or ridicule. Synonyms: derisive, gibelike, jeering, mocking. Examples: "Derisive laughter." "A jeering crowd." "Her mocking smile." "Taunting shouts of `coward' and `sissy'."