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.

See Examples For:

grimacing

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

With his eyes closed and his face grimacing, he grappled for a bolt.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 7, 2026

Islam Iskau, who's 72, is wearing an oxygen mask and is grimacing from pains in his leg.

From BBC ● Feb. 14, 2025

For several moments, Ohtani lay flat near the base, grimacing.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 27, 2024

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

From "From Twinkle, with Love" by Sandhya Menon