scowl

1 of 2

verb

ˈskau̇(-ə)l 

scowled; scowling; scowls

intransitive verb

1

: to contract the brow in an expression of displeasure

2

: to exhibit a threatening aspect

transitive verb

: to express with a scowl

scowler noun

scowlingly

ˈskau̇-liŋ-lē 

adverb

scowl

2 of 2

noun

: a facial expression of displeasure : frown

Synonyms

Verb

• glare
• stare
• frown

Noun

• grimace
• frown

Examples of scowl in a Sentence

Verb

scowled down at the misbehaving child

Noun

The teacher gave me a scowl when I walked in late.

She responded to his question with a scowl.

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

However, there has been a growing edge to Denver’s current group, personified on the field in the way safety Talanoa Hufanga flies to the ball and in the way Cooper scowls under his eye black. —Nick Kosmider, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025

Now our favorite scowling friend is getting his own movie, too. —Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 15 Oct. 2025

Noun

If Simmons’ Demon was Kiss’ scowl, then Frehley’s Spaceman was its cackle. —Joseph Hudak, Rolling Stone, 16 Oct. 2025

After a beat, Eilish is seen yanking herself away and storms off, surrounded by security with an angry scowl on her face. —Kevin Dolak, HollywoodReporter, 10 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Verb

Middle English skoulen, probably of Scandinavian origin; akin to Danish skule to scowl

First Known Use

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1

Noun

circa 1520, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for scowl

• foul
• foule
• fowl
• growl
• howl
• jowl
• owl
• prowl
• afoul
• wildfowl
• waterfowl

Kids Definition

scowl

1 of 2 verb

ˈskau̇(ə)l 

1

: to make a frowning expression of displeasure

2

: to exhibit or express with a scowl

scowler noun

scowlingly

ˈskau̇-liŋ-lē 

adverb

scowl

2 of 2 noun

: an expression of displeasure on the face : frown