IPA: /skaʊl/
KK: /skaʊl/
To make a facial expression by lowering the eyebrows and tightening the lips, usually showing anger or disapproval.
She scowled at him when he made a rude comment.
Past: scowled
Past Participle: scowled
A facial expression that shows anger or disapproval, often by lowering the eyebrows and tightening the lips.
She gave him a scowl when he arrived late to the meeting.
To make a facial expression that shows displeasure or anger, often by lowering the eyebrows and tightening the lips.
She scowled at him when he made a rude comment.
Past: scowled
Past Participle: scowled
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.
Think of someone 'squinting' or 'frowning' when they are displeased — that's what a scowl looks like.