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scowl

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /skaʊl/

KK: /skaʊl/

intransitive verb
Definition

To make a facial expression by lowering the eyebrows and tightening the lips, usually showing anger or disapproval.


Example

She scowled at him when he made a rude comment.


Tense Forms

Past: scowled

Past Participle: scowled


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see how he scowled when he didn't get the last piece of cake?
Sloth B
Yeah, I thought he was going to explode!
Sloth A
It's funny how a little cake can make someone scowl like that.
Sloth B
Right? It’s all in good fun, though.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
frown
glower
grimace
Antonyms
smile
grin
beam
noun
Definition

A facial expression that shows anger or disapproval, often by lowering the eyebrows and tightening the lips.


Example

She gave him a scowl when he arrived late to the meeting.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see her scowl when he made that joke?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was pretty clear she didn't find it funny.
Sloth A
I wonder what made her so upset — it was just a harmless comment.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To make a facial expression that shows displeasure or anger, often by lowering the eyebrows and tightening the lips.


Example

She scowled at him when he made a rude comment.


Tense Forms

Past: scowled

Past Participle: scowled


Conversation
Sloth A
Why did you scowl at me during the meeting?
Sloth B
I wasn't trying to, but your idea surprised me.
Sloth A
Really? I thought it was a good suggestion.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Scowl originates from Middle English 'scoulen', which is derived from Old Norse 'skúla', meaning to 'squint' or 'to frown'. The word describes a facial expression that conveys displeasure or anger, often characterized by a furrowing of the brow.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'squinting' or 'frowning' when they are displeased — that's what a scowl looks like.

Visually Confused Words
sowl
cowl
sowle
sowel
snowl
scrow
scold
scolb
Is this page helpful?
Sometimes people just have a scowl for no reason, you know?

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
frown
glower
grimace
Antonyms
smile
grin
beam
It was, but I guess my face just reacted!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
frown
glower
grimace
Antonyms
smile
grin
beam