Simpered: meaning, definitions and examples

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simpered

 

[ ˈsɪm.pərd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

facial expression

To simper means to smile in a silly, coy, or affected manner. It often conveys a sense of insincerity or self-consciousness. People might simper when they feel awkward or are trying to appear cute or charming. This term is usually used in a slightly derogatory way, suggesting that the smile is not genuine and is used to manipulate or deceive.

Synonyms

grin, smile, smirk

Examples of usage

  • She simpered at the compliment, trying to appear modest.
  • The actress simpered during her acceptance speech, making the audience roll their eyes.
  • He simpered when he was caught cheating, hoping to gain sympathy.

Translations

Translations of the word "simpered" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sorrir de maneira afeminada

🇮🇳 मुस्कराना

🇩🇪 schmeicheln

🇮🇩 tersenyum manis

🇺🇦 посміхатися солодко

🇵🇱 uśmiechać się głupkowato

🇯🇵 にやにやする

🇫🇷 sourire d'une manière affectée

🇪🇸 sonreír de manera afectada

🇹🇷 sırıtmak

🇰🇷 얕은 웃음

🇸🇦 ابتسامة مصطنعة

🇨🇿 usmívat se afektovaně

🇸🇰 usmievať sa afektovane

🇨🇳 做作地微笑

🇸🇮 smejati se na umetni način

🇮🇸 sýna hálfgeran

🇰🇿 жасанды күлкі

🇬🇪 თბილად ღიმილი

🇦🇿 süni gülüş

🇲🇽 sonreír de manera afectada

Etymology

The word 'simper' comes from the late Middle English term 'simperen,' which means 'to smile in a silly or ingratiating manner.' Its origin can be traced further back to the Old English 'simprian,' which suggests a notion of derisive or exaggerated smiling. Throughout history, the term has been associated with contexts where individuals display insincere emotions or feelings designed to attract attention or evoke sympathy. It has often carried a negative connotation, implying pretentiousness. The nuance of 'simpering' has persisted in literature and colloquial speech, where characters are often depicted as using this smile to mask true intentions or feelings. The development of the term reflects broader societal attitudes towards authenticity and expression.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,884, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.