Smile: meaning, definitions and examples
😊
smile
[smaɪl ]
Definitions
facial expression
A smile is a facial expression formed primarily by flexing the muscles at the sides of the mouth. It is an expression denoting pleasure, sociability, happiness, or amusement. Smiles can be involuntary or voluntary.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| smile |
Use in general situations where a person shows happiness or friendliness. It's a simple and neutral expression.
|
| grin |
Used for a wide, often mischievous or cheeky smile. Indicates amusement or satisfaction.
|
| beam |
Used when describing a very broad and joyful smile. Often implies a high level of happiness or pride.
|
| smirk |
Carries a negative connotation, often implying a smug, self-satisfied, or scornful smile.
|
Examples of usage
- She greeted him with a warm smile.
- His smile lit up the room.
- I couldn't help but smile back.
show happiness
To smile is to form a facial expression by flexing the muscles at the sides of the mouth, often to show happiness or amusement. Smiling can also be a way to express friendliness or to make someone feel comfortable.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| smile |
A general expression of happiness or friendliness. Used in almost any positive situation, whether formal or informal.
|
| grin |
A broad smile, often associated with amusement, mischief, or a positive reaction to something humorous. It can be informal.
|
| beam |
A very broad and radiant smile that shows great joy or pride. Often used to describe someone who is extremely happy or proud.
|
| smirk |
A smug, conceited, or silly smile. Often has a negative connotation as it may imply someone is being overly self-satisfied or is mocking someone else.
|
Examples of usage
- She smiled at the joke he told.
- He smiled when he saw her coming towards him.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from Middle English 'smile', which originated from the Old English 'smīelan', meaning to show joy.
- In various languages, the word for smile sounds similar, often derived from a root meaning joy or happiness, like 'sorriso' in Italian.
Psychology
- Studies show that smiling can actually boost your mood and reduce stress, thanks to the release of endorphins.
- Humans often smile as a response to social cues, establishing connections with others and creating a sense of community.
Pop Culture
- The popular song 'Just Smile' by various artists conveys the power of a smile in transforming one's day.
- In films, a character’s smile often signifies hope or happiness, making it a powerful storytelling tool.
Science
- Smiling is a universal expression recognized across different cultures, indicating that it's a fundamental human behavior.
- Research suggests that even forcing a smile can trick the brain into feeling happier due to facial feedback effects.
Art
- Artists like Leonardo da Vinci have famously captured smiles in their works, such as the mysterious smile of the Mona Lisa.
- In modern art, smiles are often used as symbols of joy or irony, appearing in pop art movements.
Translations
Translations of the word "smile" in other languages:
🇵🇹 sorrir
🇮🇳 मुस्कुराना
🇩🇪 lächeln
🇮🇩 senyum
🇺🇦 усміхатися
🇵🇱 uśmiechać się
🇯🇵 笑顔 (えがお, egao)
🇫🇷 sourire
🇪🇸 sonreír
🇹🇷 gülümsemek
🇰🇷 미소짓다 (misojitda)
🇸🇦 يبتسم (yabtasim)
🇨🇿 usmívat se
🇸🇰 usmievať sa
🇨🇳 微笑 (wēixiào)
🇸🇮 nasmehniti se
🇮🇸 brosa
🇰🇿 жымию
🇬🇪 ღიმილი (ghmili)
🇦🇿 gülümsəmək
🇲🇽 sonreír