half-smile

noun

1. a smile that is uncertain or short-lived

Example Sentences

“I wouldn’t describe it as a nightmare. We’re focused, and determined,” said Gen Lionel Catar with a half-smile.

From BBC

Even Dr. P., who had been stone-faced, gave a half-smile.

From Slate

In a photo of Teixeira in a neat dress uniform that accompanied media reports, he's a bright-eyed kid with stick-out ears and a sweet half-smile.

From Salon

The half-smile looked good on him.

From Literature

“It blows my mind,” said Cousins, who tucks her disdain into a half-smile and travels across Florida rallying against what she sees as an attempt to narrow the minds of children.

From Los Angeles Times