half-smile

British  

noun

1. a smile that is uncertain or short-lived

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Example Sentences

Ouko said she stood and called his name — a strange half-smile, half-grimace spread across Otieno’s face and he appeared out of it and in pain.

From Washington Post

For them, that glimmer of joy was the half-smile of their baby girl.

From New York Times

At one reception, in a banquet hall in the Rayburn House Office Building, he mustered a half-smile and occasionally fidgeted in a corner as lawmakers took turns extolling his bravery.

From Los Angeles Times

Her face folded into a pleased half-smile when the clinic director congratulated her on the girl’s low viral count.

From New York Times

They gave me an awkward half-smile and went back to what they were talking about.

From Salon