tease

Historically derived from the Old English tǣsan, meaning to pull apart or card wool, the noun "tease" evolved to describe a person who mocks, provokes, or annoys others. In contemporary usage, it generally refers to someone who playfully offers something—often affection, information, or sexual interest—only to withhold it, or someone who enjoys engaging in lighthearted banter and mockery.

While often used affectionately to describe a mischievous or flirtatious friend, the term carries contested connotations regarding gender and sexual politics. Critics argue that labeling a woman a "tease" (or the more explicit "cocktease") reinforces a sense of sexual entitlement, implying that friendliness or flirting constitutes a contract for intimacy and that withholding it is an act of malice. In this context, the term can be used to shift blame onto a victim of harassment by suggesting they invited the behavior. Conversely, in casual social settings, many speakers use it without gendered baggage simply to describe someone with a dry or provocative sense of humor.

Example:
"Don't take his comments too seriously; he is a massive tease, but he means well."

Example:
"She worried that if she said no to the second date, he would label her a tease."