The term 'made fun of mercilessly' can be summarized by two crossword solutions: 'rode' (4 letters) and 'SKEWERED' (8 letters). 'Rode' is a verb meaning to sit on and control the movement of a horse, bicycle, or other vehicle. It can also mean to criticize or tease someone in a mocking or humorous way. 'SKEWERED' is a verb meaning to pierce with a pointed object such as a skewer, or to criticize or ridicule someone harshly and relentlessly. Together, these two words describe the act of making fun of someone mercilessly.