What is the origin of derisive?

The word "derisive" comes from the Latin word "deridere", which means "to laugh at," "to mock," or "to ridicule."

Here's a breakdown of its etymology:

* "de-": A prefix meaning "down" or "away"

* "ridere": The Latin verb meaning "to laugh"

Therefore, "deridere" literally means "to laugh down upon" or "to laugh away at."

This meaning of mocking or ridiculing has been carried over into English, with "derisive" specifically referring to laughter or behavior intended to express scorn or contempt.