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ribber

Pronunciation

UK

  • /rˈɪbə/

US

  • /rˈɪbər/

Description

In everyday talk, a "ribber" is a person who likes to tease others in a playful, friendly way. Think of the friend who always has a quick joke or gently makes fun of small mistakes. The point is usually to get a laugh, not to hurt anyone. A ribber might joke with a teammate after a missed shot or tease a friend about a bold outfit. The word suggests light, social teasing rather than serious criticism.

Examples

  1. 1

    Friendly teasing

    He's a harmless ribber, always making jokes about his friends' bad golf swings.

  2. 2

    Office joking

    Around the office, Jen is known as the biggest ribber whenever someone forgets a meeting.

  3. 3

    Misread tone

    If you don't know him well, his comments can sound rude, but he's really just a playful ribber.

See also

nouna person who playfully teases or jokes at someone

Similar

Shades of meaning

  • banterer
  • needler
  • mocker

Contrast

Used with (collocations)

  • good-natured ribber
  • merciless ribber

Word family

Explore

  • teasing
  • banter

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • ribber