grimacing

[grim-uhs-ing, gri-may-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.

See Examples For:

grimacing

The Swiss 22-year-old got back to her feet a moment later and finished the race in last place, grimacing and clutching her chest.

From BBC ● Aug. 13, 2026

Just last week, the actress shared a mirror selfie in which she could be seen showing off her growing baby bump, pulling up her black shirt to flaunt her stomach, while grimacing at the camera.

From MarketWatch ● Aug. 11, 2026

His angular head topped with a green felt crown; his toothy mouth a sinister, grimacing gash; his eyes blackened with what looks like charcoal.

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 9, 2026

The Lakers were down by nine when Doncic departed, rubbing the back of his left thigh and grimacing in discomfort and clear frustration.

From Barron's ● Feb. 6, 2026

I asked, grimacing while she dusted something on my face that smelled like roses.

From "From Twinkle, with Love" by Sandhya Menon