frown
4 synonyms and 1 antonym for frown, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A facial expression made by lowering the eyebrows, usually showing displeasure, worry, or concentration.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A facial expression made by lowering the eyebrows, usually showing displeasure, worry, or concentration.
“A deep frown crossed her face as she read the letter.”
Opposites
How to use frown
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
frown at someone
frown on/upon something
a deep frown
Etymology
From Middle English frounen, "to frown," originally describing a threatening or lowering appearance, as of storm clouds.
Full origin of frown →Frequently asked questions
What does “frown” mean?
The word “frown” means a facial expression made by lowering the eyebrows, usually showing displeasure, worry, or concentration. In plain terms, to pull your eyebrows together to show you are unhappy, worried, or disapproving.
How do you pronounce “frown”?
“Frown” is pronounced FROWN (/ˈfɹaʊ̯n/ in IPA).
How do you use “frown” in a sentence?
Here is “frown” used in a sentence: “A deep frown crossed her face as she read the letter.”
What is another word for “frown”?
Words with a similar meaning to “frown” include scowl.
What part of speech is “frown”?
Depending on how it is used, “frown” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “frown” come from?
The word “frown” comes from Middle English. From Middle English frounen, "to frown," originally describing a threatening or lowering appearance, as of storm clouds.
Is “frown” a common word?
“Frown” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “frown” have?
“Frown” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a facial expression made by lowering the eyebrows, usually showing displeasure, worry, or concentration.
