Heckler
(noun)
- A person who interrupts or harasses someone with questions, challenges, or gibes, especially during a public speech or performance.
- A person who challenges or teases persistently.
Origin:
The word "heckler" comes from the scottish word "heckle" which means "to tease or annoy" likely derived from the middle english word "hekelen" meaning to "hatch" or "hackle" (a process of separating flax or hemp fibers by combing them). it was used in the sense of teasing or combing out the truth.
Examples:
- The comedian had to deal with several hecklers during his stand-up routine.
- The politician was able to handle the heckler during his speech.
- She had to deal with a persistent heckler during the debate.