mug shot

American  

Or mugshot

noun

Slang.

1. Also called headshot.  an identifying photograph of a suspect or criminal, often one of a set showing a frontal view, a profile view, and a view of the back of the head.

2. any closeup photograph of someone's face.

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mug shot British  

noun

1. informal a photograph of a person's face, esp one resembling a police-file picture

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Etymology

Origin of mug shot

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

When it didn’t, it was devastating for him because the world saw Paul through his scary mug shot.

From Salon

The pair, who had been traveling the world, had their mug shots taken, were denied entry and flew back to Tokyo.

From Los Angeles Times

Photography YouTuber Jared Polin said that he discussed the portrait with Mr Torok and was told the mug shot did provide inspiration.

From BBC

In his mug shot, the photographer George Steinmetz doesn’t seem especially threatening.

From New York Times

But in his multiple mug shots, I swear I see a shadow of my mom's eyes.

From Salon

Related Words

• mug