pose 1 of 3

Definition of posenext

pose

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verb (2)

pose

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun pose contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of pose are affectation, airs, air, and mannerism. While all these words mean "an adopted way of speaking or behaving," pose implies an attitude deliberately assumed in order to impress others.

her shyness was just a pose

When might affectation be a better fit than pose?

Although the words affectation and pose have much in common, affectation applies to a trick of speech or behavior that strikes the observer as insincere.

the posh accent is an affectation

When could air be used to replace pose?

The words air and pose can be used in similar contexts, but air may suggest natural acquirement through environment or way of life.

a traveler's sophisticated air

In what contexts can airs take the place of pose?

In some situations, the words airs and pose are roughly equivalent. However, airs always implies artificiality and pretentiousness.

snobbish airs

Where would mannerism be a reasonable alternative to pose?

While in some cases nearly identical to pose, mannerism applies to an acquired eccentricity that has become a habit.

gesturing with a cigarette was her most noticeable mannerism

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of pose
Verb
These kinds of sticky, muggy temperatures that persist into the night can pose a major risk to the health of anyone without access to effective cooling or adequate hydration. Adriana Pérez, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026 In another photo, the Smash alum smiled and posed with Foster at a dining table with the cake plate. Erin Clack, PEOPLE, 29 June 2026
Noun
Simple exercises like standing on one leg, heel-to-toe walking, or certain yoga poses can improve your balance, coordination, and stability. Rikkilynn Shields Hannigan, Health, 17 June 2026 The duo struck a pose together in front of a pink Rolls Royce during BGC Charity Day in London. Brendan Le, PEOPLE, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for pose
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pose
Verb
  • Christensen suggests the state should instead focus on stripping back environmental regulations that make brush clearance and fire prevention costly, which would ensure state firefighters are not working excessive overtime and the state budget is not being stretched beyond its means.
    Evelyn Ronan, Sacbee.com, 25 June 2026
  • North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Tuesday called for a major expansion of the country's naval forces, suggesting the regime should build two large warships each year for the next five years.
    Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • Pochettino seemed puzzled by the downcast tone of his post-match press conference.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 26 June 2026
  • Astronomers are puzzled that such a glaring inconsistency could have gone unnoticed in existing data, such as the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB), which provides our earliest snapshot of the universe.
    Joseph Howlett, Scientific American, 25 June 2026
Noun
  • Several videos filmed in Simferopol, Crimea’s second city, and posted online show empty roads and public spaces.
    Zahra Ullah, CNN Money, 26 June 2026
  • The United Center shared a statement from the tour's management Thursday evening confirming the show has been postponed, along with the concert's third stop in Ohio, due to Richie's health.
    Sara Tenenbaum, CBS News, 26 June 2026
Verb
  • The commission proposed going beyond that to raise it in line with life expectancy starting in 2031.
    ABC News, ABC News, 23 June 2026
  • Some lawmakers have proposed limiting trading when government officials have insider information about an event, such as internal polling or fundraising data that members of the public do not have access to.
    Matt Motta, Fortune, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • The decision reverses a June 15 determination by Division of Elections Director Carol Beecher, who concluded the Petersburg resident's candidacy was intended to confuse voters rather than represent a legitimate campaign.
    Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 27 June 2026
  • The senator and allies, including the National Republican Senatorial Committee, have condemned the challenger’s efforts to join the race, arguing his presence could confuse voters.
    Becky Bohrer, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2026
Noun
  • Local Law 11 façade inspections will be required every six years, instead of five, and buildings that are in good shape can perform them with drones and cameras instead of workers dangling from the roof.
    Justin Davidson, Curbed, 24 June 2026
  • With facades facing Seventh Avenue, 498 and 500 Seventh Avenue promised a future for America’s fashion capitol and over time, helped chart the success of Norman Norell, Bill Blass, Donna Karan and Ralph Lauren, among others.
    Tonya Blazio-Licorish, Footwear News, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • The Daily News has reached out to the festival — which began June 21 and runs through Saturday, where Artistic Director Marcel Jean will offer his condolences.
    Jami Ganz, New York Daily News, 27 June 2026
  • Notably, 25% of employers currently offer hybrid work to employees.
    Joe McKendrick, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026
Verb
  • In the sixth inning, Jasson Domínguez battled Skubal for eight pitches, surviving against the stuff that baffled him earlier in the game.
    Cody Stavenhagen, New York Times, 25 June 2026
  • His mother, Ahmani Hicks, describes him as a kid who loved sports, and she's baffled as to why her son was targeted.
    Jermont Terry, CBS News, 23 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Pose.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pose. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

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