scowl
SKOWL
/skaʊl/
An angry or bad-tempered expression; a frown of displeasure.
Implies a deep, deliberate knitting of the brows to express hostility, disapproval, or anger.
The story behind the word. Originating in Middle English as 'scoulen', this word likely has Scandinavian roots, related to Danish words meaning 'to cast down one's eyes' or 'to look sour'. It has always carried the weight of a dark, lowering look of displeasure.
Word relationships
- glower: Glower implies an intense, angry, and prolonged stare, while a scowl is specifically the facial expression of anger.
- frown: A frown can express sadness, confusion, or worry, whereas a scowl is almost exclusively used for anger or hostility.
- smile: A smile expresses warmth and happiness, while a scowl expresses anger and hostility.
Commonly confused with
- scowl vs. squint: Squinting is narrowing the eyes to see better in bright light, while scowling is a facial expression of anger.
Word family
- scowler (noun): A person who scowls.
Collocations
- dark scowl
- scowl of disapproval
- scowl fiercely
Example sentences
- "The grumpy old man met our friendly greeting with a dark scowl and walked away without speaking." An unfriendly encounter on the street.
Memory hook
A scowl rhymes with owl—imagine an angry owl staring down at you. A storm on the forehead.
When not to use
Do not confuse with a simple frown of worry or sadness; a scowl specifically carries anger or hostility.
Fun facts
- In theater and opera, actors playing villains often exaggerate their scowl to ensure that even the audience members in the very back row can instantly recognize their hostile intentions.
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