Ballyragged

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To have been subjected to a continuous barrage of teasing or ridicule, often in a lighthearted or playful manner
2. To experience persistent criticism or harassment, frequently in a humorous context
3. To endure a series of jokes or mockery, usually intended to entertain rather than harm

Etymology: "Ballyragged" is the past tense and past participle of "ballyrag," so its real story belongs to the verb itself. Ballyrag is a British dialect and slang word for bullying or persecuting someone, typically by teasing or heckling them over and over until they are worn down. The verb is usually linked to the Irish "ballyragging" tradition, in which a group of people harassed a victim with noise and rough play. Its precise origin remains uncertain, and the most common suggestion, that it blends "bully" with "ragging" (to tease), is a plausible guess rather than a documented fact.

Synonyms: berated, scolded