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Sneering: meaning, definitions and examples

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sneering

 

[ ˈsnɪərɪŋ ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

expression of contempt or ridicule

Sneering is a facial expression or tone of voice that shows scorn or mockery towards someone or something. It conveys a sense of superiority and disdain. People often sneer when they feel superior or want to belittle others.

Synonyms

contemptuous, derisive, mocking

Examples of usage

  • He gave her a sneering look before turning away.
  • She made a sneering remark about his appearance.
  • The politician's sneering tone did not go unnoticed by the audience.
Context #2 | Adjective

showing a lack of respect or seriousness

Sneering can also refer to a behavior or attitude that demonstrates disrespect or lack of seriousness. It is often characterized by a dismissive or sarcastic attitude towards something important or meaningful.

Synonyms

disrespectful, flippant, sarcastic

Examples of usage

  • His sneering attitude towards the project was unprofessional.
  • The sneering comments from the audience were uncalled for.
  • Stop sneering and start taking this seriously.

Translations

Translations of the word "sneering" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desdenhoso

🇮🇳 तिरस्कारपूर्ण

🇩🇪 spöttisch

🇮🇩 mengejek

🇺🇦 глузливий

🇵🇱 drwiący

🇯🇵 軽蔑的な

🇫🇷 narquois

🇪🇸 desdeñoso

🇹🇷 alaycı

🇰🇷 비웃는

🇸🇦 ساخر

🇨🇿 pohrdavý

🇸🇰 pohŕdavý

🇨🇳 嘲笑的

🇸🇮 zaničljiv

🇮🇸 háðskur

🇰🇿 мазақ ететін

🇬🇪 სარკასტული

🇦🇿 rişxəndli

🇲🇽 desdeñoso

Etymology

The word 'sneering' originated from the Middle English word 'sneren', which meant to sneer or jeer. It has been used in English literature since the 14th century to describe a mocking or disdainful expression. Over the centuries, 'sneering' has evolved to encompass not just facial expressions but also attitudes and behaviors that convey contempt or ridicule.

See also: sneer.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,656, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.