Leer Meaning in English
word
Definition
A 'leer' is an unpleasant, often sexual or sly look that someone gives another person. It usually suggests bad intentions or makes the other person uncomfortable.
Usage & Nuances
'Leer' is formal or literary and usually negative; it is often used with verbs like 'give' or 'cast' ('give someone a leer'). Not to be confused with 'peer' (look closely) or 'stare' (look intensely without bad intent). Rarely used in daily speech; more common in books describing creepy, inappropriate, or sly looks.
Example Sentences
He gave her a leer as she walked by.
basic
The man watched with a leer on his face.
basic
I felt uncomfortable because of his leer.
basic
He tried to hide his leer, but it was obvious.
natural
She avoided the bar because of the bartender’s leer.
natural
That joke made him grin with a mischievous leer.
natural