Scowl (?), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Scowled (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Scowling.] [Akin to Dan. skule; cf. Icel. skolla to skulk, LG. schulen to hide one's self, D. schuilen, G. schielen to squint, Dan. skele, Sw. skela, AS. sceolh squinting. Cf. Skulk.]

1.

To wrinkle the brows, as in frowning or displeasure; to put on a frowning look; to look sour, sullen, severe, or angry.

She scowled and frowned with froward countenance. Spenser.

2.

Hence, to look gloomy, dark, or threatening; to lower.

"The scowling heavens."

Thomson.

 

© Webster 1913.


Scowl, v. t.

1.

To look at or repel with a scowl or a frown.

Milton.

2.

To express by a scowl; as, to scowl defiance.

 

© Webster 1913.


Scowl, n.

1.

The wrinkling of the brows or face in frowing; the expression of displeasure, sullennes, or discontent in the countenance; an angry frown.

With solemn phiz, and critic scowl. Lloyd.

2.

Hence, gloom; dark or threatening aspect.

Burns.

A ruddy storm, whose scowl Made heaven's radiant face look foul. Crashaw.

 

© Webster 1913.

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