wry face
Definition
Noun: A wry face is a facial expression that shows dislike, disapproval, or contempt. It typically involves twisting or contorting the features, such as the mouth or nose, in a way that conveys scorn, disdain, or mild disgust.
Usage
The term "wry face" is used to describe a specific, often involuntary, grimace made in reaction to something unpleasant or contemptible. It is a physical manifestation of a negative opinion or feeling.
Examples
- She made a wry face after tasting the bitter medicine.
- His story was met with wry faces from the skeptical audience.
- The critic looked at the painting with a wry face, clearly unimpressed.
Advanced Usage
- "To pull a wry face": This is a common collocation meaning to make such an expression.
- He pulled a wry face when he heard the outdated plan.
Variants and Related Words
- Grimace (n/v): A twisted expression on the face, typically expressing pain, disgust, or wry amusement. While similar, a "grimace" has a broader range of causes (from physical pain to humor) than the specific disdain implied by a "wry face."
- Sneer (n/v): An expression of scorn or contempt typically shown by a slight raising of one corner of the upper lip. A sneer is more specifically contemptuous and less about physical twisting than a wry face.
Synonyms
- Scornful look
- Contemptuous grimace
- Disdainful expression
Related Idioms
- "To make a face": A more general idiom for contorting one's features to show dislike or disgust. A "wry face" is a specific type of made face.
- The child made a face at the broccoli, but the adult made a more sophisticated wry face at the poor joke.
Noun
-
a disdainful grimace
