Leered

To leer means to cast a sidelong, suggestive, or malicious glance. It often implies a predatory or lascivious intention, conveying a sense of disapproval or discomfort. The gaze is typically prolonged and subtly implies a desire for something inappropriate or a judgemental assessment. The visual element combines with an underlying intent, adding a level of threat or condescension to the action. It's a behavior characterized by the eyes and an unwholesome interest often based on negativity.

Leered meaning with examples

• The detective, suspecting a lie, leered at the witness, attempting to catch her in a contradiction. The intense stare, coupled with his skeptical expression, made her visibly nervous. The atmosphere in the interrogation room became thick with tension and suspicion and a quiet accusation hung in the air. She fought not to flinch, fearing any sign of weakness.
• The wolf at the edge of the forest leered hungrily at the lost child, its yellow eyes glinting in the twilight. He studied the child, gauging his vulnerability. It was a primal gesture, a threat etched across the landscape. The child, sensing danger, froze. He then swiftly gathered his courage and ran as fast as he could.
• Dismissing the woman's argument, the man leered at her, his expression conveying dismissiveness and condescension. The gesture was deeply insulting. The woman's face went red. Her anger and embarrassment bubbled up immediately. She found herself wanting to leave the scene and her opinion unheard.
• The tabloid photographer leered at the celebrity, hoping to capture a scandal and generate sales for his magazine. His actions were driven by money and he cared not for the celebrity's personal life. He was eager to exploit their private life and to use the most controversial picture he could find, to generate headlines.
• As the bully leered at the newcomer, he seemed to assess his size and strength, weighing him up. The silent threat, delivered through the eyes alone, was palpable. The other kids knew what this gesture meant: to be the target of his disdain or a challenge to a fight. It was the beginning of a battle.