ricaner

to snicker, to snigger

verb ree-kah-NEH Rare

Usage Note

Ricaner conveys a derisive or mocking laugh — softer and nastier than éclater de rire (to burst out laughing). The noun le ricanement describes the snicker itself. Unlike sourire or rire, ricaner always implies mockery or contempt; using it in a neutral sense would sound odd.

Examples

"Les eleves ricanaient dans le couloir."

Natural Translation

The pupils were snickering in the corridor.

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