The fallacy of appeal to ridicule occurs when, instead of addressing the substance of an opposing position, an arguer mocks or insults that position, or likens it to something ridiculous.

Here is an example:

Person A: "If you don't think Smith is a good Senator, please say why."

Person B: "Smith a good senator? What a delusion! Laughable! No more need be said!"

Sometimes the fallacy is committed by means of sarcasm or exaggeration:

Person A: "I think you should fasten your seat belt while we are driving."

Person B (sarcastically): "Oh, and I should wear a crash helmet and cover my entire body with bubble wrap, too."

This tactic can be observed sometimes on debates stages, especially when an arguer's supporters are present in the audience in significant numbers -- the intent (and effect) being to elicit a loud reaction from the crowd. ​ ​