Smirk
/smɜːrk/noun
A smug, conceited, or silly smile.
Did you know?The term 'smirk' originally suggested a sneering or smug expression, often associated with derision or disdain—think of it as a mask for hidden contempt.
Etymological Timeline
Middle English
English
smerke
“To smile in a smug or self-satisfied way.”
Old Norse
Old Norse
smirkr
“A smile or grin.”
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*smirkaną
“To smile or grimace.”
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*smīr-
“To smile or to express joy.”