Observe derisory response not engaging all hearts (5)
I believe the answer is:
catch
'hearts' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?
I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for catch that I've seen before include "Hidden problem; trap" , "potential partner?" , "Intercept and hold" , "Hidden drawback" , "Seize; start burning" .)