Find Synonyms
frown Synonyms
Another word for frown
Choosing another word for frown depends on context, so the 16 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
• noun (Context 1)
A facial expression in which the eyebrows are brought together and the forehead is wrinkled, typically indicating displeasure, sadness, or intense concentration.
Usage Example
"A deep scowl creased her forehead as she tried to decipher the handwriting on the old letter."
Strongest
scowl
Strong
glower
grimace
glare
pout
Weak
moue
• verb (Context 2)
To furrow one's brow and draw the eyebrows together in an expression indicating displeasure, sadness, or deep concentration.
Usage Example
"He frowned at the puzzling instructions before attempting to assemble the bookshelf."
Strongest
scowl
Strong
glower
grimace
glare
pout
Weak
lower
lour
• verb (Context 3)
To regard something with disapproval or distaste (usually followed by 'on' or 'upon').
Usage Example
"Speaking loudly on a mobile phone is strongly frowned upon in the university library."
Strongest
disapprove
Strong
dislike
discourage
deprecate
look down on
condemn
censure
object
Opposites of frown
The opposite of frown shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:
smile
approve
grin
beam
endorse
encourage
welcome
condone
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Frown. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/frown