grimace

[ grim-uhs, gri-meys ]

noun

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

verb (used without object)

, grim·aced, grim·ac·ing.

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

grimace

/ ɡrɪˈmeɪs /

noun

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

verb

1. intr to contort the face

Derived Forms

• griˈmacer, noun
• griˈmacingly, adverb

Other Words From

• grim·ac·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of grimace¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of grimace¹

C17: from French grimace, of Germanic origin; related to Spanish grimazo caricature; see grim

Example Sentences

Actually, she reclined for the interview, slipping off her heels and stretching out on a leather chaise under a waffle-weave blanket that she eventually cast aside with a grimace.

From Los Angeles Times

All of it was seemingly captured on TikTok - often in real-time - as consumer after consumer filmed themselves biting into the hardened treats, responding with a series of grimaces rather than delight.

From BBC

Or, for that matter, the jealous, craven Guy rising to the surface, whom Stan nails hilariously with each stewing grimace.

From Los Angeles Times

Squinting and grimacing at times as Harris castigated him, Trump appeared intent on answering even the slightest provocations.

From Los Angeles Times

In comparison, Donald Trump’s smile is a grimace, a satirical grin.

From Salon

Related Words

• contort
• frown
• scowl
• smirk
• sneer