© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

sneer

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /snɪr/

KK: /snɪr/

intransitive verb
Definition

To make a facial expression that shows scorn or contempt, often by curling the lip.


Example

He couldn't help but sneer at the ridiculous suggestion.


Tense Forms

Past: sneered

Past Participle: sneered


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see how he sneered at my idea in the meeting?
Sloth B
Yeah, that was pretty rude of him.
Sloth A
I can't believe he would sneer like that in front of everyone.
Sloth B
Some people just don't know how to be respectful.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
smirk
scoff
jeer
Antonyms
praise
commend
applaud
noun
Definition

A facial expression or remark that shows contempt or scorn, often involving a slight raising of one side of the mouth.


Example

She gave a sneer when she heard his ridiculous suggestion.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see her sneer during the presentation?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was so obvious she didn't like the idea.
Sloth A
I thought her sneer was really unprofessional.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To speak or express something in a way that shows contempt or scorn, often with a mocking tone.


Example

He sneered at the idea, making it clear he thought it was foolish.


Tense Forms

Past: sneered

Past Participle: sneered


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear how he sneer at my idea during the meeting?
Sloth B
Yeah, that was really uncalled for.
Sloth A
It's frustrating when someone tries to sneer instead of giving constructive feedback.
Root Explanation

Sneer originates from Middle English 'sneren', meaning to snort or to make a contemptuous sound. The word reflects a facial expression or sound that conveys disdain or scorn.

Memory Tip

Think of someone making a contemptuous sound or expression, like a snort, to remember that 'sneer' means to show disdain.

Visually Confused Words
seer
neer
snecker
sneaker
besneer
sweer
steer
speer
Is this page helpful?
Totally! It made the whole meeting awkward.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
smirk
scorn
derision
Antonyms
admiration
praise
respect
Sloth B
Totally! It makes it hard to have an open discussion.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
mock
scorn
ridicule
Antonyms
praise
commend
flatter