The phrase "sullen looks" refers to a facial expression that displays resentment or gloominess. The word "sullen" is pronounced /ˈsʌlən/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "sul" is pronounced as in "sulfur" and the second syllable "len" is pronounced like "men." The spelling of the word "sullen" reflects its Middle English origins, influenced by Old Norse "sulinn" meaning "solemn" or "troubled." Together with "looks," this phrase communicates nonverbal communication conveying negative emotions.
Sullen looks refer to facial expressions or appearances characterized by a gloomy, irritated, or discontented attitude. The term "sullen" is often used to describe the facial expressions of someone who appears moody, sulky, or resentful, typically manifested through a lack of smiles or a downturned mouth, along with an overall sad or angry demeanor. Sullen looks convey a negative, somber energy, denoting feelings of unhappiness, frustration, or a withdrawn state of mind.
When someone has sullen looks, their facial expression may be devoid of warmth or friendliness, conveying a sense of resentment, bitterness, or melancholy. Their eyes may appear dull, devoid of shine or liveliness, further emphasizing their negative mood. These looks may also be indicative of suppressed anger or frustration, often accompanied by a lack of active engagement in social interactions or a withdrawn demeanor. People with sullen looks may avoid eye contact, prefer isolation, or exhibit behaviors that demonstrate their unwillingness to participate in conversation or activities.
Sullen looks can be observed in various contexts, such as someone upset or discontented due to a disagreement, feeling overwhelmed by stress or sadness, or experiencing disappointment or resentment. The term "sullen looks" encompasses an array of negative emotions and can be interpreted differently depending on the individual and their specific situation.
The word "sullen" dates back to the late 14th century, derived from the Old French word "solein" or "sullen", meaning "lonely" or "solitary". It is further traced to the Latin word "solus", meaning "alone" or "sole". As for the word "looks", it comes from the Middle English word "loken", which means "to look" or "to behold". Together, "sullen looks" denotes a facial expression or gaze that is gloomy, resentful, or hostile, reflecting a somber and unsociable demeanor.