as in to disregard
to ignore in a disrespectful manner an able-bodied motorist openly flouting the law and parking in a space reserved for the disabled

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How is the word flout distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of flout are fleer, gibe, jeer, scoff, and sneer. While all these words mean "to show one's contempt in derision or mockery," flout stresses contempt shown by refusal to heed.

flouted the conventions of polite society

When can fleer be used instead of flout?

In some situations, the words fleer and flout are roughly equivalent. However, fleer suggests grinning or grimacing derisively.

the saucy jackanapes fleered at my credulity

When would gibe be a good substitute for flout?

While in some cases nearly identical to flout, gibe implies taunting either good-naturedly or in sarcastic derision.

hooted and gibed at the umpire

Where would jeer be a reasonable alternative to flout?

Although the words jeer and flout have much in common, jeer suggests a coarser more undiscriminating derision.

the crowd jeered at the prisoners

When is it sensible to use scoff instead of flout?

The words scoff and flout can be used in similar contexts, but scoff stresses insolence, disrespect, or incredulity as motivating the derision.

scoffed at their concerns

When might sneer be a better fit than flout?

While the synonyms sneer and flout are close in meaning, sneer stresses insulting by contemptuous facial expression, phrasing, or tone of voice.

sneered at anything romantic

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of flout With the shipbuilding industry concentrated in the American North, the Confederates turned to those willing to flout neutrality laws and sell them ships despite pressure from American diplomats. Francine Uenuma, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 June 2025 Most Popular Most Popular Judge finds Florida attorney general in contempt of court for flouting immigration order Judge finds Florida attorney general in contempt of court for flouting immigration order Will a new fireworks law stop mortar blasts in Orlando neighborhood? Amy Drew Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 June 2025 The universities in their lawsuit argue that the 15% cap on reimbursement rates for those indirect costs flouted the regulatory regime governing them and Congress' express directives. Nate Rayond, USA Today, 18 June 2025 The judge in that case, James E. Boasberg, wanted the data in an effort to determine whether the government had flouted his order to turn the planes around. Alan Feuer, New York Times, 16 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for flout
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flout
Verb
  • The Dalai Lama, however, has said that his successor will be born outside China and has urged his followers to disregard any appointment made by the Chinese Communist Party.
    Jordan King, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 June 2025
  • The Watergate scandal did inspire the creation of the Freedom of Information Act, which Gillett disregards.
    Kevin Rennie, Hartford Courant, 28 June 2025
Verb
  • Centrists despised the deep cuts to programs for the poor and elderly.
    Philip Elliott, Time, 1 July 2025
  • Many of them love their country but despise what the regime has turned it into.
    Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 30 June 2025
Verb
  • And don’t forget the extras—there are some on point, heeled flip-flops and woven bags that truly capture the feel-good mood of summertime ease.
    Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 27 June 2025
  • Hiking and Camping Deals Don't forget to check out our guide to the Best Day-Hiking Backpacks and the Best Travel Bags.
    Scott Gilbertson, Wired News, 27 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Flout.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flout. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

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