laughing stock
Plural
laughing stocks
1
a person or thing so silly or ridiculous that everyone makes fun of
The idiom "laughing stock" has its roots in Middle English and was originally used in the form "laughingstocke." It combines the words "laughing" and "stock." In this context, "stock" referred to a wooden post or trunk, often used for various purposes. This expression is used to describe someone or something that is widely ridiculed, made fun of, or regarded with amusement and contempt by others. It suggests that the person or thing has become the subject of laughter and derision.
- After his failed attempt at stand-up comedy, he became the laughing stock of the comedy club.
- The new product's design was so bizarre that it became the laughing stock of the industry.
- She didn't want to be the laughing stock of the school, so she practiced her speech tirelessly.
- The politician's embarrassing gaffe made him the laughing stock of the entire nation.
- Becoming the laughing stock of the office was the last thing he wanted, so he double-checked his presentation