sneer
word
Definition
To smile or speak in a way that shows you think someone or something is not good enough or is silly; a facial expression showing contempt or disrespect.
Usage & Nuances
Usually negative; implies a strong sense of disrespect or superiority. Common with 'at' ('sneer at someone'). Conveyed by both words and facial expression. Stronger than simple 'smirk' or 'smile'.
Spanish: burlarse - sonreír con desprecioPortuguese (BR): desdenhar - sorrir com desprezoPortuguese (PT): desdenhar - sorrir com desdémChinese (Simplified): 嘲笑 - 冷笑Chinese (Traditional): 嘲笑 - 冷笑Hindi: व्यंग्य से मुस्कुराना - तिरस्कारपूर्वक मुस्कानArabic: يسخر - ابتسامة بازدراء
Example Sentences
He gave me a sneer when I made a mistake.
basic
She couldn't hide her sneer at his new haircut.
basic
It's rude to sneer at other people's ideas.
basic
He always sneers whenever someone tries something new at work.
natural
Her voice was full of sneer when she spoke about her old boss.
natural
Don't sneer at people just because they're different from you.
natural