Category:Frown

Frown, v. i. [imp. &, p. p. Frowned; p. pr. & vb. n. Frowning.] Etym: [OF. froignier, F. frogner, in se refrogner, se renfrogner, to knit the brow, to frown; perh. of Teutonic origin; cf. It. in frigno wrinkled, frowning, Prov. It. frignare to cringe the face, to make a wry face, dial. Sw. fryna to make a wry face,]

1. To contract the brow in displeasure, severity, or sternness; to scowl; to put on a stern, grim, or surly look. The frowning wrinkle of her brow. Shak.

2. To manifest displeasure or disapprobation; to look with disfavor or threateningly; to lower; as, polite society frowns upon rudeness. The sky doth frown and lower upon our army. Shak.

frown Frown, v. t.

Defn: To repress or repel by expressing displeasure or disapproval; to rebuke with a look; as, frown the impudent fellow into silence.

frown Frown, n.

1. A wrinkling of the face in displeasure, rebuke, etc.; a sour, severe, or stere look; a scowl. His front yet threatens, and his frowns command. Prior. Her very frowns are fairer far Than smiles of other maidens are. H. Coleridge.

2. Any expression of displeasure; as, the frowns of Providence; the frowns of Fortune.