sneer
7 synonyms and 2 antonyms for sneer, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To curl the lip slightly in contempt or scorn.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. verb
To curl the lip slightly in contempt or scorn.
“He sneered at the suggestion, as if it were beneath him.”
Opposites
cheer
laugh with
2. noun
A facial expression or remark showing contempt.
“There was a sneer on his face as he read the letter.”
How to use sneer
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
sneer at
a mocking sneer
sneer with contempt
Etymology
From Middle English sneren, ultimately traced back to an Old English word meaning "to snort."
Full origin of sneer →Frequently asked questions
What does “sneer” mean?
The word “sneer” means to curl the lip slightly in contempt or scorn. In plain terms, showing scorn or disrespect through your expression or tone.
How do you pronounce “sneer”?
“Sneer” is pronounced sneer (/snɪɚ̯/ in IPA).
How do you use “sneer” in a sentence?
Here is “sneer” used in a sentence: “He sneered at the suggestion, as if it were beneath him.”
What is another word for “sneer”?
Words with a similar meaning to “sneer” include gird, jeer, jibe, laugh at, scoff and scorn.
What is the opposite of “sneer”?
The opposite of “sneer” — its antonyms — are cheer and laugh with.
What part of speech is “sneer”?
Depending on how it is used, “sneer” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “sneer” come from?
The word “sneer” comes from Old English. From Middle English sneren, ultimately traced back to an Old English word meaning "to snort.".
How many meanings does “sneer” have?
“Sneer” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to curl the lip slightly in contempt or scorn.
