frown
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1frown

verb \ˈfran\

Definition of FROWN

intransitive verb
1
: to contract the brow in displeasure or concentration
2
: to give evidence of displeasure or disapproval by or as if by facial expression <critics frown on the idea>
transitive verb
: to show displeasure with or disapproval of especially by facial expression
frown·er noun
frown·ing·ly \ˈfra-niŋ-lē\ adverb

Examples of FROWN

  1. She was frowning when she entered the room, so I knew that she was annoyed about something.
  2. <the boss just stood there and frowned at his assistant who, once again, was in trouble>

Origin of FROWN

Middle English frounen, from Middle French frogner to snort, frown, of Celtic origin; akin to Welsh ffroen nostril, Old Irish srón nose
First Known Use: 14th century

Related to FROWN

Synonyms
glare, gloom, glower, lower (also lour), scowl, look daggers (or stare daggers)
Antonyms
beam, grin, smile

Rhymes with FROWN

2frown

noun

Definition of FROWN

1
: an expression of displeasure
2
: a wrinkling of the brow in displeasure or concentration

Examples of FROWN

  1. <it was clear from the frown on the CEO's face that sales were headed in the wrong direction>

First Known Use of FROWN

1581

Related to FROWN

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