First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
1fleer
verb \ˈflir\
Definition of FLEER
intransitive verb
: to laugh or grimace in a coarse derisive manner : sneer
— fleer·ing·ly \-iŋ-lē\ adverb
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of FLEER
Middle English fleryen, of Scandinavian origin; akin to Norwegian flire to giggle
Synonym Discussion of FLEER
scoff, jeer, gibe, fleer, sneer, flout mean to show one's contempt in derision or mockery. scoff stresses insolence, disrespect, or incredulity as motivating the derision <scoffed at their concerns>. jeer suggests a coarser more undiscriminating derision <the crowd jeered at the prisoners>. gibe implies taunting either good-naturedly or in sarcastic derision <hooted and gibed at the umpire>. fleer suggests grinning or grimacing derisively <the saucy jackanapes fleered at my credulity>. sneer stresses insulting by contemptuous facial expression, phrasing, or tone of voice <sneered at anything romantic>. flout stresses contempt shown by refusal to heed <flouted the conventions of polite society>.
Rhymes with FLEER
2fleer
noun
Definition of FLEER
: a word or look of derision or mockery
First Known Use of FLEER
1604
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up fleer? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).