sneer

[ sneer ]
/ snɪər /

verb (used without object)

to smile, laugh, or contort the face in a manner that shows scorn or contempt: They sneered at his pretensions.
to speak or write in a manner expressive of derision or scorn.

verb (used with object)

to utter or say in a sneering manner.

noun

a look or expression of derision, scorn, or contempt.
a derisive or scornful utterance, especially one more or less covert or insinuative.
an act of sneering.

Origin of sneer

1545–55; orig., to snort; compare Frisian (N dial.) sneere scornful remark, snarl1

SYNONYMS FOR sneer

2 gibe. See scoff1.
5 scoff, gibe, jeer.

OTHER WORDS FROM sneer

Example sentences from the Web for sneering

British Dictionary definitions for sneering

sneer
/ (snɪə) /

noun

a facial expression of scorn or contempt, typically with the upper lip curled
a scornful or contemptuous remark or utterance

verb

(intr) to assume a facial expression of scorn or contempt
to say or utter (something) in a scornful or contemptuous manner

Derived forms of sneer

sneerer, noun sneerful, adjective sneering, adjective, noun sneeringly, adverb

Word Origin for sneer

C16: perhaps from Low Dutch; compare North Frisian sneere contempt