Mere mockery of a meal? (5)

I believe the answer is:

scoff

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'mere mockery' is the definition.
'scoff' can be an answer for 'mockery' (synonyms). I am not certain of the 'mere' bit.

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for scoff that I've seen before include "Speak contemptuously or drink informally" , "Furiously swallow" , "food on offer" , "Quickly swallow" , "Speak derisively" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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