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Simpering: meaning, definitions and examples

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simpering

 

[ ˈsɪmpərɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

behavior, attitude

Simpering refers to smiling or speaking in a silly, self-conscious, or affected manner. It often implies a lack of seriousness or a desire to appear coy or ingratiating.

Synonyms

grin, silly smile, smile coyly, smirk

Examples of usage

  • She was simpering at the compliment, making the moment awkward.
  • His simpering laughter during the meeting frustrated his colleagues.
  • The actor was simpering in front of the press, trying to win favor.
  • No one took his simpering remarks seriously.

Translations

Translations of the word "simpering" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sorrindo de maneira afeminada

🇮🇳 मासूमियत से मुस्कुराना

🇩🇪 schmeichelnd

🇮🇩 tersenyum manis

🇺🇦 сміятися наївно

🇵🇱 łasić się

🇯🇵 媚びるように笑う

🇫🇷 sourire de manière mielleuse

🇪🇸 sonreír de manera afectada

🇹🇷 yalaka gülümsemek

🇰🇷 아첨하며 웃다

🇸🇦 الابتسام بطريقة مفرطة

🇨🇿 usmívat se podbízivě

🇸🇰 usmievať sa pohrabkovito

🇨🇳 献媚地微笑

🇸🇮 smejati se na nedolžen način

🇮🇸 falskur brosandi

🇰🇿 жасанды түрде күлу

🇬🇪 თამაშის ღიმილი

🇦🇿 şirin gülüş

🇲🇽 sonreír de manera afectada

Word origin

The word 'simpering' originates from the early 18th century. It is derived from the Middle English 'simperen', which is believed to have roots in the Old Norse word 'sǫmpra', meaning to smile or grin. The term has evolved over the years to acquire a connotation of being feigned or affected in demeanor, often used to describe someone who is attempting to charm or ingratiate themselves in a somewhat insincere manner. By the 19th century, 'simpering' was commonly used in literature and everyday speech to portray characters who were excessively compliant or flirtatious without genuine depth. Its usage continues today in modern literature and conversation, often to convey a sense of disapproval towards someone's superficial or insincere behavior.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,657 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.