po-faced

[ poh-feyst ]

adjective

, Chiefly British.

1. having an overly serious demeanor or attitude; humorless.

po-faced

adjective

1. (of a person) wearing a disapproving stern expression

Word History and Origins

Origin of po-faced¹

Origin uncertain; perhaps po a chamber pot + -faced, influenced by poker-faced

Word History and Origins

Origin of po-faced¹

C20: possibly from po + poker-faced

Example Sentences

Ms. Dimoldenberg asked, prompting Mr. Theroux to launch into his rhymes in what he described as “my slightly po-faced and dry English delivery.”

From New York Times

“We intend to fulfill our true ambitions and destiny as an independent, developed, prosperous country,” Jamaica’s prime minister, Andrew Holness, said Wednesday as a po-faced William looked on.

From Seattle Times

This is what happens when people equate seriousness with worthiness: We get a full slate of earnest, po-faced nominees.

From New York Times

Half the time I thought I was in some Wes Anderson po-faced sendup of happenings and performance art.

From New York Times

Off the pitch Russell's playful streak marks him out amid the modern game's po-faced professionalism.

From BBC