Taunt, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Taunted; p. pr. & vb. n. Taunting.]
Etymology: [Earlier, to tease; probably fr. OF. tanter to tempt, to try, for tenter. See Tempt.]
To reproach with severe or insulting words; to revile; to upbraid; to jeer at; to flout. When I had at my pleasure taunted her. Shak.
Syn. -- To deride; ridicule; mock; jeer; flout; revile. See Deride.
2 other Webster entries under this spelling
Taunt, a.
(Naut.)
Very high or tall; as, a ship with taunt masts. Totten.
Taunt, n.
Upbraiding language; bitter or sarcastic reproach; insulting invective. With scoffs, and scorns, and contemelious taunts. Shak. With sacrilegious taunt and impious jest. Prior.