Smirked: meaning, definitions and examples

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smirked

 

[ smɜrkt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

facial expression

To smirk means to smile in an affected, smug, or self-satisfied manner. It often implies a sense of superiority or amusement at someone else's expense. The smirk can convey a sense of teasing or sarcasm, often leaving others feeling belittled or misunderstood. This expression can be perceived as arrogant and is sometimes used in situations of mockery.

Synonyms

grin, smile, snicker

Examples of usage

  • She smirked at his mistake.
  • He couldn't help but smirk when he saw the results.
  • They smirked knowingly, as if they held a secret.
  • The villain smirked as he revealed his plan.

Translations

Translations of the word "smirked" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sorrir de lado

🇮🇳 चिढ़ाना

🇩🇪 schmunzeln

🇮🇩 tersenyum sinis

🇺🇦 зміїти

🇵🇱 uśmiechnąć się złośliwie

🇯🇵 ニヤリと笑う

🇫🇷 sourire en coin

🇪🇸 sonreír de forma burlona

🇹🇷 sırıtmak

🇰🇷 비웃다

🇸🇦 ابتسامة ساخرة

🇨🇿 usmívat se

🇸🇰 usmievať sa

🇨🇳 得意地微笑

🇸🇮 smejati se zlobno

🇮🇸 brosa

🇰🇿 мазақ ету

🇬🇪 იცინება

🇦🇿 sırıtmaq

🇲🇽 sonreír de manera burlona

Word origin

The word 'smirk' has its origins in the late 15th century, derived from the Middle High German word 'smerken,' which means 'to smile.' It was used to describe a half-smile or sly grin, often associated with a smug or self-satisfied demeanor. This notion of a self-satisfied smile can be traced back even further to Old Norse 'smjǫr,' which referred to oil or grease, perhaps implying a sleek or sly quality. The evolution of the term has seen it transition into common usage in the English language, often carrying a negative connotation indicative of mockery or arrogance. In contemporary usage, smirking is frequently linked to teasing, sarcasm, or a subtle show of disdain, encapsulating the dual nature of pleasure and superiority in social interactions.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,629, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.