frown
verb (used without object)
to contract the brow, as in displeasure or deep thought; scowl.
frowning
-
present participleof frown.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In the troika of major figures in the Russian Revolution, Trotsky stood for ideas and Stalin represented power; their predecessor, Vladimir Lenin, had fused the two values as the frowning avatar of communist leadership.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 27, 2026
Many consumers have bought both the smiling and frowning versions, to represent both the highs and lows expected in the coming year.
From Barron's ● Feb. 5, 2026
Like many South Africans he praised Ramaphosa for his measured handling of the encounter in the White House, smiling when Trump was frowning.
From BBC ● May 21, 2025
"He just kinda crept up on the guy and was looming over his shoulder and frowning at him while the guy was speaking."
From Salon ● Aug. 27, 2024
“I see,” Chandresh says, frowning as he looks the girl over slowly from head to toe.
From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern
