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sneer

verb

/snɪə/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of sneer

To convey contempt, disdain, or disapproval through a facial expression or gesture.
"They would sneer at anyone who didn't conform to their social norms."

Detailed meaning of sneer

It refers to a situation in which someone curls their lip and looks down on someone or something with a sense of superiority or scorn. For example, someone might sneer at a person who they believe is inferior or unworthy, or they might sneer at an idea or concept that they find objectionable or ridiculous. The verb "sneer" suggests a sense of disdain or contempt, and implies that someone is looking down on someone or something with a sense of superiority or judgment. It is often used in discussions of social interactions, where people's facial expressions and gestures can convey a wide range of emotions and attitudes.

Example sentences containing sneer

1. He couldn't help but sneer when he heard her sarcastic remark.
2. She would often sneer at his attempts to impress her.
3. His face contorted into a sneer as he read the critical review.
4. The audience began to sneer at the actor's poorly delivered lines.
5. It was rude of him to openly sneer at her unconventional style.
6. She tried to hide her sneer, but her eyes betrayed her true feelings.

History and etymology of sneer

The verb 'sneer' has its etymology with origins in Middle English. It likely comes from the Middle English word 'sneren,' which meant 'to snort' or 'to deride.' The exact evolution of the word is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have developed from imitating the sound made when one expresses disdain or contempt. Over time, 'sneer' came to describe the act of conveying contempt, disdain, or disapproval through a facial expression or gesture, particularly by curling the lips in a manner that suggests scorn. The etymology of 'sneer' highlights its connection to the physical and audible aspects of derision, capturing the essence of expressing contempt or disapproval through a specific facial expression and sound.

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Further usage examples of sneer

1. His constant sneering made it difficult to have a civil conversation.
2. I saw him sneer at the idea, clearly unimpressed.
3. Despite the criticism, she refused to sneer at others' choices.
4. He couldn't help but sneer in disbelief at the outrageous claim.
5. The room filled with sneers as he stumbled over his speech.
6. Don't sneer at my dreams; they're valid and important to me.
7. He will sneer at anything that doesn't align with his narrow worldview.
8. Please don't sneer at people who are less fortunate than you; it's unkind.
9. The politician couldn't help but sneer at his opponent's feeble attempt to answer the question.
10. She would always sneer at anyone who dared to challenge her authority.
11. The teacher's sneer made the student feel small and unworthy.
12. He likes to sneer at others to mask his own insecurities.
13. Despite their success, they still sneer at those who come from humble beginnings.
14. The bully would sneer at anyone who didn't fit into their idea of normalcy.
15. It's disheartening to see people sneer at those who are different from them.
16. She couldn't help but sneer at the tasteless joke he made.
17. The judgmental neighbor would sneer at anyone who didn't maintain a perfectly manicured lawn.
18. He would sneer at any suggestion that challenged his traditional beliefs.
19. The manager's constant sneer created a toxic work environment.
20. The popular kids at school would always sneer at the nerdy students.
21. The elitist art critic would sneer at any artwork that didn't conform to their standards.
22. Despite his achievements, he would sneer at compliments and downplay his success.
23. The judge's sneer reflected a biased attitude towards the defendant.
24. The snobby customer would sneer at the waiter's attire, treating them with disdain.