grimace

American  

[grim-uhs, gri-meys] / ˈgrɪm əs, grɪˈmeɪs /

noun

1. a facial expression, often ugly or contorted, that indicates disapproval, pain, etc.

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verb (used without object)

grimaced, grimacing

1. to make a facial expression, often ugly or contorted, that indicates disapproval, pain, etc.

grimace British  

/ ɡrɪˈmeɪs /

noun

1. an ugly or distorted facial expression, as of wry humour, disgust, etc

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verb

1. (intr) to contort the face

Other Word Forms

• grimacer noun
• grimacingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of grimace

First recorded in 1645–55; from French, ultimately from Frankish grima (unrecorded) “mask” ( grim, grime ) + -azo, from Latin -āceus -aceous

Example Sentences

“That was disgusting!” a man shouts into the mic, flashing a grimacing expression.

From Los Angeles Times

I stood as far back as I could in the snug compartment and grimaced my way through it.

From Los Angeles Times

Frank was furious at his team's lack of aggression at Arsenal, visibly grimacing when he pointed out they only won 17 out of 53 duels and second-ball situations.

From BBC

I blink them back and try for a lopsided smile … but it deflates and melts into an ugly grimace.

From Literature

The folds of his skin looked deeper than usual, and his smile seemed forced, like he was grinning through a grimace.

From Literature

Related Words

• contort
• frown
• scowl
• smirk
• sneer