lip curl

American  

[lip kurl] / ˈlɪp ˌkɜrl /

Or lip-curl

noun

1. Animal Behavior.

   1. in dogs, a lifting of the upper lip as a warning, either to humans or to other animals.

      In dog language, that lip curl is actually a peaceable signal—the dog is hoping the other dog understands that it wants to be left alone.

   2. Also lip curling in deer and other artiodactyls, horses, and felines, an upward curling of the upper lip to aid the sense of smell by increasing the flow of air through the nostrils and exposing the auxiliary olfactory organs: a characteristic component of the flehmen response and sometimes also a sign of pain or symptom of disease.

2. in humans, an arching of one side of the upper lip, expressing either scorn or sexual interest.

   She could not speak of defectors and informers without a lip curl.

   He does a great Elvis impression—tantalizing lip curl and all.

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Etymology

Origin of lip curl

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

lip curl

Hutchence looks intense and focused as he sings the opening verse, which culminates with his Elvis Presley-like lip curl and snarl on the line "Never tear us apart . . ."

From Salon ● Jan. 21, 2020

Mars then showed off a very respectable Elvis lip curl, followed by a impromptu performance of “Jailhouse Rock.”

From Seattle Times ● Dec. 14, 2016

Oh, and she has a lip curl that would put the senior Rolling Stone to shame.

From BBC ● Jan. 4, 2013

The lip curl is a threat display, the bile is an attempt to purge a toxin.

From Time ● Jan. 11, 2012

Harry knew exactly what was making Mr. Malfoy’s lip curl like that.

From "Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire" by J. K. Rowling