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Definition of sneer

sneer

/snɪər/
sneer
Adverb:sneeringly
•
Plural:sneers
•
Adjective:sneering
•
Past Simple:sneered
•
Past Participle:sneered
•
Present Participle:sneering
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sneer Lexical Profile

sneer Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A contemptuous or mocking smile, remark, or tone of voice.

Example

"He greeted the rival team's proposal with an arrogant sneer."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• verb

1

To smile or speak in a contemptuous or mocking manner.

Example

"Critics used to sneer at his unconventional painting style before it became popular."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for sneer
Antonyms
View all antonyms for sneer

• Rhymes for sneer

• Nearby Words

sneakingly
sneakish
sneaky
sneer
sneering
sneeringly
sneeze

Word Origin & Etymology

Dating back to the late 16th century, probably of Low German or Frisian origin and akin to Middle English 'sneren' (to show the teeth like a dog), originally meaning to snort or grin in derision.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sneer. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sneer
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