facial expression

/ˈfeɪʃəl ɛkˈsprɛʃən/
/ˈfeɪʃəl ɛkˈsprɛʃən/
IPA guide

Other forms: facial expressions

Definitions of facial expression
  1. noun
    a gesture executed with the facial muscles
    synonyms: facial gesture
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    types:
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    emoticon
    a representation of a facial expression (as a smile or frown) created by typing a sequence of characters in sending email
    gape
    an expression of openmouthed astonishment
    face, grimace
    a contorted facial expression
    frown, scowl
    a facial expression of dislike or displeasure
    grin, grinning, smile, smiling
    a facial expression characterized by turning up the corners of the mouth; usually shows pleasure or amusement
    laugh
    a facial expression characteristic of a person laughing
    snarl
    an angry vicious expression
    straight face
    a serious facial expression giving no evidence of interest or amusement
    wink
    closing one eye quickly as a signal
    wince
    the facial expression of sudden pain
    smiley
    an emoticon of a smiling face
    rictus
    a gaping grimace
    moue, pout, wry face
    a disdainful grimace
    simper
    a silly self-conscious smile
    smirk
    a smile expressing smugness or scorn instead of pleasure
    type of:
    gesture, motion
    the use of movements (especially of the hands) to communicate familiar or prearranged signals
  2. noun
    the feelings expressed on a person's face
    synonyms: aspect, expression, face, look
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    types:
    leer
    a suggestive or sneering look or grin
    light, spark, sparkle, twinkle
    merriment expressed by a brightness or gleam or animation of countenance
    type of:
    countenance, visage
    the appearance conveyed by a person's face
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DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘facial expression'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family

Vocabulary lists containing facial expression

Speaking and Listening - Introductory

Listen up! If you want to improve your communication skills, review this list of words related to speaking and listening. Whether you're delivering a speech, giving an informal presentation, or participating in a group discussion, you'll need to know these essential terms.

Speaking and Listening - Middle School

Listen up! If you want to improve your communication skills, review this list of words related to speaking and listening. Whether you're delivering a speech, giving an informal presentation, or participating in a group discussion, you'll need to know these essential terms.

Speaking and Listening - High School

Listen up! If you want to improve your communication skills, review this list of words related to speaking and listening. Whether you're delivering a speech, giving an informal presentation, or participating in a group discussion, you'll need to know these essential terms.

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