Smirk - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Definition:
A smug or conceited smile, often expressing scorn or amusement.
Synonyms:
sneer, simper, grin
Part of Speech:
noun, verb
Antonyms:
frown, scowl
Common Collocations:
sly smirk, knowing smirk, smug smirk, give a smirk, suppress a smirk
Derivatives:
smirker, smirkingly
Usage Tips:
Use "smirk" to describe a self-satisfied or mocking smile, often implying arrogance or hidden amusement.
Common Phrases:
wipe the smirk off someone's face, smirk behind someone's back
Etymology:
From Old English *smercian*, meaning "to smile," related to *smear* and *smile*.
Examples:
- 1. He gave a sly smirk when he won the game.
- 2. She tried to hide her smirk during the serious meeting.
- 3. His smirk revealed he knew more than he admitted.
- 4. Don’t just stand there with that annoying smirk!