Definitions

grimacing

[grim-uhs-ing, gri-mey-sing] / ˈgrɪm əs ɪŋ, grɪˈmeɪ sɪŋ /

VERB

make a pained expression

Synonyms

STRONGEST

contort frown scowl smirk sneer

STRONG

deform distort mouth mug

WEAK

make a face make a wry face misshape screw up one's face

Antonyms

STRONGEST

grin smile

STRONG

beautify

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Grimacing, he plowed ahead, driven by the pain.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2026

Grimacing at times through the pain, Woods made a 12-foot birdie putt on the last hole to force a playoff.

From Washington Times • Jun. 10, 2023

Grimacing in pain from his bruised cheekbone, Cristiano Ronaldo steadied himself before scoring from the penalty spot for his first goal in Saudi Arabia against a Paris Saint-Germain team featuring old foe Lionel Messi.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 19, 2023

Grimacing, he shut his eyes again and grunted: “I understand better than you think.”

From Slate • Dec. 24, 2022

Grimacing on the ground, he heard Edwin beating the pieces of driftwood in a hypnotic rhythm.

From "Touching Spirit Bear" by Ben Mikaelsen