Part of Speech

Verb, Noun

Pronunciation

/fraʊn/ (pronounced "frown")

Definitions

• 1. (verb) To contract the brow, as in displeasure or concentration; to make a facial expression that shows unhappiness or disapproval.
• 2. (verb) To show displeasure or disapproval through a facial expression.
• 3. (noun) A facial expression of displeasure, disapproval, or concentration, typically involving the furrowing of the brow.

Usage Examples

• She frowned when she heard the news.
• Don't frown, things will get better soon.
• His frown deepened as he thought about the situation.

Etymology

The word "frown" originates from Middle English "frounen," which is from the Old French "frointer" or "frontere," meaning to wrinkle the forehead. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century to describe a facial expression indicating displeasure or concentration.

Synonyms

• Scowl
• Glare
• Glower
• Gloom
• Brood

Antonyms

• Smile
• Grin
• Beam
• Laugh

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some dialects of English, "frown" is pronounced with a more nasal tone in regions where non-rhotic accents prevail. The stress may also shift in poetic contexts, but the general pronunciation remains consistent across the majority of dialects.

Historical Usage

The term "frown" has been used in English for centuries, originating from the Old French word "frointer," meaning "to wrinkle or furrow the brow." It was first recorded in English in the late Middle Ages, around the 14th century, and has evolved to describe both the physical act of furrowing the brow and the emotional expression of displeasure or anger.

Cultural Nuances

Frowning is often associated with negative emotions such as anger, disapproval, or sadness. However, in certain contexts, a frown may also be used to indicate concentration or deep thought. In some cultures, frowning can be seen as a sign of respect or seriousness, especially in formal situations or discussions. The way frowning is interpreted can vary significantly across cultures, with some viewing it as a sign of personal strength and others as a social faux pas.

More Information

Frowning remains a widely understood expression of displeasure, though its use in modern society has somewhat diminished with the rise of more positive facial expressions like smiling and laughing. It still appears in literature and art as a symbol of conflict, defiance, or internal struggle. In psychology, frowning is often associated with feelings of frustration, anger, or confusion, and is commonly studied as part of facial emotion research.