Definition of make fun of

The phrase "make fun of" is a relatively recent combination, appearing in the late 19th century. It's a blending of two older expressions: * **"Make sport of"** - Meaning to ridicule or mock someone, dating back to the 16th century. * **"Make game of"** - Also meaning to mock or ridicule, used from the 17th century onward. The phrase "make fun of" gained popularity due to its simplicity and directness, becoming a common way to describe the act of teasing or mocking someone.