Mach vs. Mock

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Grammarist

Mach and mock are two words that are pronounced in the same way but are spelled differently and have different meanings, which makes them homophones. We will examine the definitions of Mach and mock, where these words came from and some examples of their use in sentences.

Mach is a ratio that relates the speed of a moving body to the speed of sound in the substance that the body is moving through. Most often, Mach is used with a number such as Mach 1, which is the speed of sound, Mach 2 which is twice the speed of sound, and so on. The word Mach is taken from the name Ernst Mach, a physicist who was active during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Note that the word Mach should be capitalized.

Mock means to make fun of someone or something, to tease someone or something or to mimic someone or something in a derisive manner. Mock may also mean something that is a copy of something, such as a mock turtleneck sweater. Mock is used as a noun, adjective or verb. Related words are mocks, mocked, mocking, mocker, mockery. The word mock is derived from the Old French word mocquer which means to deride.

Examples

It will be faster than any other tunnel currently in operation and allow avionics researchers to test sub-scaled models of aircraft and missiles capable of reaching Mach 25 (30,625 kmph) or 25 times of the speed of sound. (The International Business Times)

That said, I have compiled my latest mock draft and the second in a three-volume series. (Forbes Magazine)

The 37-year-old was mocked by followers after she shared a picture, which was clearly photo- shopped as there was a squashed car in the background and a curb was bent. (Sputnik News)

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