frowned

VERB

scowl

Synonyms

STRONGEST

glare glower grimace pout

STRONG

gloom lower sulk

WEAK

cloud up do a slow burn give a dirty look give the evil eye knit brows look black look daggers look stern

Antonyms

STRONGEST

grin smile

WEAK

approve condone encourage

VERB

disapprove

Synonyms

STRONG

deprecate discountenance discourage disesteem disfavor dislike object

WEAK

discommend look askance at not take kindly to show displeasure take a dim view of

Antonyms

STRONG

approve

WEAK

condone encourage grin smile

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In a country where corruption is rife but ostentatious displays of wealth are frowned upon, Zanjani attracted ire among many.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

Bragging, threatening, and posturing are all frowned upon.

From Slate • Apr. 13, 2026

For her, karate is a way to "release emotions" and "bring serenity during stressful times", even though it was long frowned upon for women to practise the sport in Iran.

From Barron's • Nov. 17, 2025

I don’t think that’s right, because when you decide to do it while you’re playing, you’re frowned upon.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 11, 2025

Grandpa frowned and started digging at his wiry whiskers with his fingers.

From "Summer of the Monkeys" by Wilson Rawls