Definitions

grimace

[grim-uhs, gri-meys] / ˈgrɪm əs, grɪˈmeɪs /

NOUN

scowling facial expression

Synonyms

STRONGEST

frown scowl smirk sneer

STRONG

face moue mouth mouthing mug smile

WEAK

wry face

Antonyms

WEAK

grin

VERB

make a pained expression

Synonyms

STRONGEST

contort frown scowl smirk sneer

STRONG

deform distort mouth mug

WEAK

make a face make a wry face misshape screw up one's face

Antonyms

STRONGEST

grin smile

STRONG

beautify

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.

Nesmith and Siakam could only grimace at each other.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026

“I know where it is,” he said through the grimace.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 7, 2026

"Some attendees, unable to tolerate the stench, grimace and cover their noses as they approach the flower."

From Salon • May 27, 2025

He can crack a smile and a joke or two, but the bespectacled leader can often take on the grimace of a disappointed elder.

From BBC • Jul. 14, 2024

He stared at something behind her, mouth pulled into a frightened grimace.

From Anya and the Dragon by Sofiya Pasternack