noun
smirk
smurk
Smirk (noun) means a sly, self-satisfied, or mocking half-smile. Example: “A smirk crossed his face when he realized he'd won.”
noun
1
A sly, self-satisfied, or mocking half-smile.
"A smirk crossed his face when he realized he'd won."
verb
1
To smile in this sly or self-satisfied way.
"She smirked as she watched her rival fumble the answer."
How to use smirk
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA knowing or superior half-smile, often at someone else's expense.
Common mistake
A smirk is usually smug or mocking, unlike a genuine, friendly smile.
Easily confused with
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Word forms
- Plural
- smirks
- Third person singular
- smirks
- Past tense
- smirked
- Comparative
- more smirk
- Superlative
- most smirk
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A _____ crossed his face when he realized he'd won.
Etymology
From Old English smearcian, "to smile," related to smile. The word narrowed over time to mean a smug or mocking smile rather than a genuine one.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for smirk
See all rhymes for smirk →Frequently asked questions
What does “smirk” mean?
The word “smirk” means a sly, self-satisfied, or mocking half-smile. In plain terms, a knowing or superior half-smile, often at someone else's expense.
How do you pronounce “smirk”?
“Smirk” is pronounced smurk (/smɝk/ in IPA).
How do you use “smirk” in a sentence?
Here is “smirk” used in a sentence: “A smirk crossed his face when he realized he'd won.”
What part of speech is “smirk”?
Depending on how it is used, “smirk” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “smirk” come from?
The word “smirk” comes from Old English. From Old English smearcian, "to smile," related to smile. The word narrowed over time to mean a smug or mocking smile rather than a genuine one.
How many meanings does “smirk” have?
“Smirk” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a sly, self-satisfied, or mocking half-smile.
