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.

"I'm not a fan," Ethan says with a grimace.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 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

“But they saw me grimace a little bit on the mound, and they’re not going to take any chances.”

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 10, 2024

If it wasn’t for the grimace, I’d think she didn’t even hear me.

From "Five Feet Apart" by Rachael Lippincott