First Known Use: 1827
Dictionary
rictus
noun ric·tus \ˈrik-təs\
Definition of RICTUS
1
: the gape of a bird's mouth
2
a : the mouth orifice b : a gaping grin or grimace
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Origin of RICTUS
New Latin, from Latin, open mouth, from ringi to open the mouth; akin to Old Church Slavic rǫgŭ mockery
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