flout

Etymology

Perhaps from Middle English flouten (“to play the flute”); compare with Dutch fluiten.

verb

  1. (transitive) To express contempt for (laws, rules, etc.) by word or action.
    2012, The Economist, Sep 29th 2012 issue, Tax alchemy: Tech's avoidance The manoeuvres of Microsoft and HP appear to comply with the letter of the regulations, even if they flout their spirit.
    ban, order, edict, mandate, commandment, taboo
  2. (transitive, archaic) To scorn.

noun

  1. The act by which something is flouted; violation of a law.
    A flout is when someone deliberately and ostentatiously contravenes a maxim. 2012, John Flowerdew, Discourse in English Language Education, page 97
  2. A mockery or insult.

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