Frown

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Frown

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun and verb

Pronunciation

frawn  /fraʊn/

Definition

As a verb: to furrow one's brow in disapproval, displeasure, or concentration; to look disapprovingly at something. As a noun: a facial expression made by furrowing the brow, indicating displeasure, worry, or deep thought.

Plain meaning

A frown is the facial expression of disapproval or concentration — furrowing the brow. To frown upon something means to disapprove of it.

Register

Neutral and everyday. The frown upon idiom is standard in formal and policy writing.