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
First Known Use: 15th century

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>.

2fleer

noun

Definition of FLEER

:  a word or look of derision or mockery

First Known Use of FLEER

1604

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: fleererPrevious Word in the Dictionary: fleemAll Words Near: fleer
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears