Leer

To leer means to look or gaze in a sly, suggestive, or malicious way. This often involves a sidelong glance accompanied by an unpleasant or lascivious facial expression, often conveying ill-intent, lust, or disapproval. A leer typically signals a judgment or objectification of the person or object being observed. The gaze is not one of simple observation but carries an added element of implied meaning, whether it be of lustful desire, mockery, or secret knowledge. It can be a subtle cue, conveying a complex emotion or judgment without spoken words. The leer can also suggest superiority or disdain. It emphasizes the observer's judgment of or power over the subject, often in a condescending or contemptuous manner.

Leer meaning with examples

• The villain, spotting the damsel from across the room, offered a calculating leer, his eyes narrowed with a hunger that made her uneasy. It wasn't a look of friendly admiration, but rather one that spoke of a sinister plan. His leer hinted at what he wanted and what lengths he might go to acquire it, his gaze heavy with unspoken intentions. Her heart pounded in her chest.
• As the critic reviewed the artist's work, he met his masterpiece with a derisive leer. His mouth curved into a sneer and he silently shook his head. The artist noticed this and felt their confidence waver. This leer communicated his disapproval, dismissing the piece's effort and creative approach. It served as a silent judgment, a condemnation of the art before him.
• The bully across the playground cast a triumphant leer at the smaller child after snatching his toy. The look was a display of power, a show of dominance. It spoke of cruelty and pleasure drawn from causing someone else distress. The victim understood the intention behind the malicious leer, a silent act of intimidation.
• The detective offered a knowing leer at the suspect during the interrogation. The look implied that he was aware of the suspect’s lies. His look revealed that he possessed more evidence than he was letting on, and was designed to shake the suspect. It was a tool of psychological manipulation designed to elicit a reaction and uncover the truth.