Showed derision, in a way

I believe the answer is:

spat

(Other definitions for spat that I've seen before include "Short gaiter or slight quarrel (4)" , "cross words" , "A small tiff or quarrel" , "Minor difference" , "Spoke violently" .)

I've seen this clue in The New York Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.