WordGarden.ioscowl
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /skˈaʊl/
US
- /ˈskaʊl/
Meanings
Verb
to look at someone or something with an angry, displeased expression
Noun
an angry, displeased facial expression
Beyond the definition
A scowl is not just any frown; it is the kind of look that clearly says, "I am not happy." You might see it on someone who is annoyed, angry, or upset with another person. A person may make this face when someone cuts in line, when a child is told "no," or when a character in a story wants to show dislike or disapproval. It is more than simple sadness; it usually shows anger, irritation, or strong displeasure. Sometimes people even make this face without noticing when they are trying hard to solve something frustrating.
To scowl is to frown severely, usually to show anger, annoyance, or disapproval. It is a facial expression marked by lowered eyebrows and tight muscles around the eyes and mouth, giving a clear sign that someone is displeased. You can think of it as a face that darkens when a person is upset.
You might see a child scowl when told they cannot have another cookie, or a teacher scowl at students who are being disruptive. A character in a novel might scowl to show hostility or suspicion: "The guard scowled at the traveler, demanding to know his business."
Interestingly, a scowl is not always intentional. Sometimes people scowl without realizing it when they are deep in thought or struggling with a difficult task. It can be a brief expression, or it can last for quite a while, showing everyone around them that they are in a bad mood. While a simple frown might show sadness, a scowl is usually more about anger or displeasure.
So, if you see someone with a furrowed brow and lips pressed tightly together, they are probably wearing a scowl, a clear sign that something has upset them.
Examples
- 1
Customer complaint
The customer scowled at the waiter after waiting twenty minutes for his food.
- 2
Asking about mood
"Why are you scowling?" Maya asked when I walked into the room.
- 3
Digital message
He read the message twice, then scowled and put his phone away.
- 4
Body language
She answered the question with a scowl and crossed her arms.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Sports practice
The coach wore a scowl all through practice.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- scowlnounverb
Forms
- scowling-ing formverbnoun
- scowledpast tenseverbnoun
- scowlspluralnounverb