"Deride" means to mock or ridicule someone or something in a contemptuous way. When a person derides another, they express scorn or disdain, often using humor or sarcasm to belittle the subject. This action can be hurtful and is typically seen as a negative behavior in social interactions. In literature and media, characters may deride others to highlight differences or conflicts. For example, in Shakespeare's plays, characters often use derision to showcase their superiority or to undermine their opponents. This technique can serve to develop themes of power dynamics and social hierarchies.