Grimace Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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grimace

[ˈɡrɪˌmeɪs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

facial expression

A grimace is a facial expression that usually indicates disapproval, pain, or disgust. It involves tightening the facial muscles and contorting the face in an unpleasant manner.

Synonyms

frown, scowl, sneer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
grimace	Use this word when someone makes a facial expression that shows pain, disgust, or discomfort. It often involves twisting the facial muscles. He grimaced as the doctor touched his injured leg. She grimaced when she tasted the sour lemon.
frown	This word is used when someone makes a facial expression that shows confusion, displeasure, or concentration. It usually involves the eyebrows being drawn together. She frowned as she tried to solve the difficult math problem. He frowned at the bad news in the letter.
scowl	Scowl implies a more intense and angry expression compared to 'frown'. It's used when someone is visibly showing anger or irritation, often with a furrowed brow and a downturned mouth. He scowled at the noisy children playing outside. She scowled when she saw the mess in the kitchen.
sneer	Used to describe a facial expression that shows contempt or disdain. It often involves a slight lifting of one corner of the mouth. This word has a negative connotation. He sneered at his rival's attempt to win the race. She sneered when she heard the ridiculous excuse.

Examples of usage

She made a grimace when she tasted the bitter medicine.
His grimace of pain was evident after he stubbed his toe.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

expressing discomfort

To grimace is to make a facial expression that shows discomfort, pain, or displeasure. It often involves twisting the face into an expression of pain or dislike.

Synonyms

cringe, flinch, wince.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
grimace	Used to describe a facial expression that shows discomfort, displeasure, or pain. Often associated with an involuntary reaction to something unpleasant or sour. She couldn't help but grimace when she tasted the sour lemon He grimaced in pain as he stood up
wince	Describes a slight, involuntary grimace or shrinking movement, typically caused by pain, embarrassment, or distress. It suggests a brief, subtle reaction. He winced as the nurse inserted the needle She winced at the hurtful comment
cringe	Used when someone feels acute embarrassment, discomfort, or fear. This word often describes a physical reaction, such as drawing back or tensing up, in response to something awkward or embarrassing. It can have a negative connotation. I cringe every time I think about that embarrassing moment The movie was so cheesy that I couldn't help but cringe
flinch	Refers to a quick, involuntary movement or reaction to something painful, frightening, or surprising. It usually indicates a reflexive, defensive response. He flinched when the doctor touched his sore shoulder She didn't even flinch when the loud noise startled everyone else

Examples of usage

He grimaced as he tried to squeeze into the tight space.
She grimaced at the sight of the spoiled food.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'grimace'

The word 'grimace' originated from the French word 'grimache', which means a grotesque or distorted face. The term has been used in English since the 17th century to describe a facial expression of disgust or disapproval.

See also: grim, grime, grimmer, grimoire.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,328, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21325 nicest
21326 reusable
21327 ooze
21328 grimace
21329 idiotic
21330 integument
21331 naturalness
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