Pronunciation: /snɪr/

Definitions of sneer

noun a contemptuous or mocking smile, remark, or tone

Example Sentences

A1 She gave him a sneer when he told a bad joke.

A2 The bully's sneer made the other kids feel uncomfortable.

B1 His sneer of disapproval was evident as he watched the performance.

B2 The politician's sneer during the debate did not go unnoticed by the audience.

C1 Her sneer of superiority only served to alienate her colleagues.

C2 The professor's sneer at the student's question revealed his disdain for ignorance.

verb to smile or speak in a contemptuous or mocking manner

Example Sentences

A1 She sneers when she doesn't like something.

A2 He sneered at the idea of going to the party.

B1 The customer sneered at the poor quality of the product.

B2 The politician sneered at the reporter's question.

C1 The professor sneered at the student's lack of preparation for the presentation.

C2 The actress sneered at the paparazzi as she left the event.

Examples of sneer in a Sentence

formal She couldn't help but sneer at his lack of professionalism during the meeting.

informal I saw him sneer at the new guy when he walked in.

slang Don't you dare sneer at me like that!

figurative The dark clouds seemed to sneer down at the small town below.

Grammatical Forms of sneer

past tense

sneered

plural

sneers

comparative

sneerier

superlative

sneeriest

present tense

sneer

future tense

will sneer

perfect tense

have sneered

continuous tense

is sneering

singular

sneer

positive degree

sneer

infinitive

to sneer

gerund

sneering

participle

sneering

Origin and Evolution of sneer

First Known Use: 1530 year
Language of Origin: Middle English
Story behind the word: The word 'sneer' originated from the Middle English word 'sneren' which meant to snort or deride.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'sneer' evolved to specifically refer to a facial expression or tone of voice that shows contempt or ridicule.