The Greek verb empaizō means to mock, ridicule, or make a fool of someone — to play upon them as if they were a toy. The prefix em- (in) intensifies the paizō (to play/sport), suggesting deep, sustained contempt rather than casual dismissal.
Empaizō is used prominently in the Passion narratives as the word describing the mocking of Christ. After his sentencing, soldiers mocked (empaizō) Jesus: crown of thorns, purple robe, reed scepter, 'Hail, King of the Jews' (Matt 27:29,31,41). Isaiah 50:6 anticipated this: 'I did not hide my face from mockery (kalam in Hebrew).' The profound theological irony is that the one who endured mockery as a helpless prisoner was in fact the King of the universe. His refusal to respond in kind, His prayer for His tormentors (Luke 23:34), and His ultimate vindication in resurrection — this is the theology of the cross. The mockery of Calvary becomes the triumph of Easter.