How Do You Spell SNEER AT?

Pronunciation: [snˈi͡əɹ at] (IPA)

The word "sneer at" is spelled with the phonetic transcription /snɪr æt/. The sound /s/ at the beginning of the word is followed by the consonant cluster /nɪr/ which is pronounced as a single syllable. Then comes the preposition "at" which is pronounced with the short vowel sound /æ/. The word "sneer" means to make a contemptuous or mocking facial expression, often by curling the upper lip. It can also be used figuratively to describe an attitude of disdain towards something.

SNEER AT Meaning and Definition

1. "Sneer at" is a phrasal verb that is generally used in a figurative sense to describe an expression of contempt, mockery, or disdain towards someone or something. This phrase is commonly employed to indicate a derisive or scornful attitude displayed by an individual or a group towards another person's actions, beliefs, or opinions. When someone sneers at someone or something, they typically communicate their contempt or disapproval through facial expressions, body language, or verbal remarks.

   A sneer, as a noun, is characterized by a facial expression in which one side of the mouth is twisted upwards in a mocking or contemptuous manner while the other side remains relatively neutral. It is often accompanied by raised eyebrows, narrowed or squinting eyes, and a generally disdainful demeanor. This expression is indicative of a person's condescending or belittling attitude towards the subject of their sneer.

   The act of sneering at someone or something can stem from various reasons, including superiority or arrogance, disagreement, or a desire to diminish someone's self-esteem. Individuals may sneer at another's appearance, behavior, achievements, ideas, or any other aspect they deem worthy of ridicule. This action can be seen as an attempt to demean or undermine the person or their efforts.

   In summary, "sneer at" refers to a gesture, expression, or verbal response that conveys contempt or scorn towards a person, their actions, or their beliefs. It symbolizes a derisive and mocking attitude intended to belittle or demean another individual or their ideas.

Common Misspellings for SNEER AT

• aneer at
• zneer at
• xneer at
• dneer at
• eneer at
• wneer at
• sbeer at
• smeer at
• sjeer at
• sheer at
• snwer at
• snser at
• snder at
• snrer at
• sn4er at
• sn3er at
• snewr at
• snesr at
• snedr at
• snerr at

Etymology of SNEER AT

The word "sneer" originated from the Middle English term "sneren", which was influenced by the Old Norse word "snerra" meaning "to scorn" or "to mock". This Old Norse term eventually evolved from the Proto-Germanic root "snarrōną", which had a similar meaning of "to gnash". The term "sneer" came into English usage around the 16th century, with the specific phrase "sneer at" emerging to express the act of mocking or ridiculing someone or something.

Idioms with the word SNEER AT

• sneer at sm or sth The idiom "sneer at someone or something" refers to expressing contempt, scorn, or derision towards someone or something through facial expressions or mocking remarks. It implies showing a lack of respect or belittling someone or something.