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Sneering - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Sneering means showing contempt or scorn through a mocking smile, tone, or expression. It conveys disdain or derision, often to belittle someone or their ideas. Example: He gave a sneering laugh at her suggestion.

sneering

/ˈsnɪrɪŋ/ /ˈsnɪərɪŋ/

Definition:

Showing contempt or scorn through a mocking smile or remark.

Synonyms:

mocking, scornful, derisive, contemptuous

Part of Speech:

adjective, noun

Antonyms:

admiring, respectful

Common Collocations:

sneering tone, sneering remark, sneering laughter

Derivatives:

sneer (verb), sneer (noun)

Usage Tips:

Use "sneering" to describe facial expressions or tones that convey disdain or mockery.

Common Phrases:

sneering smile, sneering comment, sneering look

Etymology:

Derived from Middle English "sneren," meaning to twist or distort the face in contempt.

Examples:

  • 1. She gave him a sneering glance before turning away.
  • 2. His sneering tone made her feel small and unimportant.
  • 3. The audience responded with sneering laughter at his failed joke.
  • 4. A sneering remark escaped his lips during the heated argument.

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