Meaning
mocking, sneering
- Expressing mocking contempt, sarcasm, or cynical amusement.
In a sentence
Il rivale gli rivolse un sorriso beffardo prima di andarsene.
His rival gave him a mocking smile before walking away.
Ha risposto alle nostre domande serie con un tono apertamente beffardo.
He answered our serious questions with an openly mocking tone.
Il destino a volte gioca scherzi beffardi anche alle persone più caute.
Fate sometimes plays cruel, mocking tricks even on the most cautious people.
Word forms (4)
| Word | Word forms |
|---|---|
| beffardo | masculine · singular |
| beffarda | feminine · singular |
| beffardi | masculine · plural |
| beffarde | feminine · plural |
Usage notes
- Very often qualifies facial expressions, tones, or laughter ('sorriso beffardo').
- Derived from the noun 'beffa' (mockery, practical joke).