Frown: meaning, definitions and examples

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frown

[fraʊn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

facial expression

To furrow one's brow in an expression of displeasure or concentration.

Synonyms

glower, grimace, scowl.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
frown	Used to express displeasure, confusion, or concentration. It is typically a temporary facial expression responding to a specific situation. She began to frown when she heard the confusing instructions He had a deep frown on his face while solving the complex math problem
grimace	Typically refers to a distorted facial expression indicating pain, disgust, or discomfort. It often looks unusual or exaggerated. She grimaced as she tasted the bitter medicine He made a grimace when he stepped on the sharp rock
scowl	Describes a facial expression showing deep displeasure, anger, or a bad mood lasting longer than a frown. It involves a more pronounced lowering of the eyebrows. She couldn't help but scowl when she saw the unfair decision His scowl deepened as the argument continued
glower	Conveys a strong, often sustained look of anger or disapproval. It is more intense than a frown and can be used to describe a serious or threatening stare. The teacher glowered at the students who were talking during the test He glowered at his opponent across the chessboard

Examples of usage

She frowned when she heard the news.
He frowned in confusion.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

facial expression

A facial expression indicating displeasure, sadness, or concentration, typically with the corners of the mouth turned downward and the brow furrowed.

Synonyms

glower, grimace, scowl.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
frown	This word is used when someone wrinkles their forehead in displeasure, confusion, or concentration. It is generally mild and not overly aggressive. She began to frown when she couldn't understand the math problem. He frowned at the menu, unsure of what to order.
scowl	This word is used to describe a facial expression that shows irritation or anger. It is stronger than a frown and often involves a furrowed brow and pursed lips. He scowled when he heard the bad news. The manager scowled at the employee who was late again.
glower	This word is used when someone looks at another person or thing with intense anger or disapproval. It is stronger than a frown and implies a hostile attitude. The teacher glowered at the students who were talking during the lecture. He glowered at his competitor, feeling the heat of the competition.
grimace	This word is used to describe an expression that indicates pain, disgust, or discomfort. It often involves twisting the face. She grimaced after tasting the sour lemon. The patient grimaced in pain as the doctor examined the wound.

Examples of usage

She had a deep frown on her face.
His frown deepened as he listened.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word has roots in Middle English from 'frounen', which means 'to scowl or grimace'.
Before the term became widely used, many expressed displeasure through facial expressions without specific terms.
Its origin can be traced back to Old French 'fronchir', meaning 'to wrinkle'.

Psychology

Studies show that frowning can be contagious; seeing someone else frown might make you feel sad too.
Frowning often occurs subconsciously as a reaction to negative emotions or uncomfortable situations.
Researchers found that frowning can indicate both emotional pain and physical discomfort, acting as a signal to others.

Pop Culture

Frowning characters in cartoons often symbolize villains or troublemakers, making it easy to identify their intentions.
The iconic character Grumpy Cat became famous for her permanent frown, turning her into an internet meme about displeasure.
Movies often use a frown to depict conflict or sadness, guiding the audience's emotional response.

Literature

Authors often describe characters frowning to quickly convey their feelings, creating a vivid image in readers' minds.
In literature, a frown can signify a character's internal struggle or conflict, deepening the narrative.
Poets might use frowning imagery to symbolize thoughts of sorrow or discontent within a piece.

Cultural Differences

In some cultures, a frown is a clear sign of disapproval, while in others, people might use it less frequently.
Certain cultures encourage smiling or neutral expressions, meaning frowning could be viewed as impolite or confrontational.
Cultural norms influence expressions like frowning, impacting interpersonal communication styles worldwide.

Translations

Translations of the word "frown" in other languages:

🇵🇹 franzir a testa

🇮🇳 भौंहें सिकोड़ना

🇩🇪 die Stirn runzeln

🇮🇩 mengernyitkan dahi

🇺🇦 нахмуритися

🇵🇱 marszczyć brwi

🇯🇵 しかめる

🇫🇷 froncer les sourcils

🇪🇸 fruncir el ceño

🇹🇷 kaşlarını çatmak

🇰🇷 눈살을 찌푸리다

🇸🇦 يعبس

🇨🇿 mračit se

🇸🇰 mračiť sa

🇨🇳 皱眉

🇸🇮 mrščiti se

🇮🇸 að hleypa brúnum saman

🇰🇿 қасын түю

🇬🇪 შუბლის შეკვრა

🇦🇿 qaşlarını çatmaq

🇲🇽 fruncir el ceño

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,724, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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11721 yeah
11722 mosquito
11723 follower
11724 frown
11725 counteract
11726 kerosene
11727 interviewing
...