Sneer: meaning, definitions and examples

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sneer

[ snɪər ]

Verb / Noun

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in conversation

To smile or speak in a contemptuous or mocking manner.

Synonyms

jeer, mock, scoff, taunt.

Examples of usage

He sneered at her suggestion.
She sneered at his attempt to impress her with his car.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

expressing contempt or ridicule

A contemptuous or mocking smile, remark, or tone.

Synonyms

derision, mockery, ridicule, scorn.

Examples of usage

She responded with a sneer to his comment.
His sneer of disdain was evident to all.

Translations

Translations of the word "sneer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desdém

🇮🇳 तिरस्कार

🇩🇪 Hohn

🇮🇩 cemoohan

🇺🇦 глузування

🇵🇱 drwiny

🇯🇵 嘲笑

🇫🇷 sarcasme

🇪🇸 desdén

🇹🇷 küçümseme

🇰🇷 비웃음

🇸🇦 ازدراء

🇨🇿 posměch

🇸🇰 posmech

🇨🇳 冷笑

🇸🇮 zaničevanje

🇮🇸 hæðni

🇰🇿 мазақ

🇬🇪 ჩიფი

🇦🇿 istehza

🇲🇽 desdén

Etymology

The word 'sneer' originated in the late 18th century, derived from the Middle Low German word 'snēren' meaning 'to curl the lip'. Over time, it evolved to its current usage in English, primarily associated with expressions of contempt or ridicule.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,947, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
16944 particularity
16945 colloid
16946 splendidly
16947 sneer
16948 surged
16949 grumbled
16950 substandard
...