/liːr/ or /liːr/ or /lɪr/ (LEE-er, LEE-er, or LIR)

Definitions

1. verb

to look at someone or something with a mixture of curiosity and suspicion, often in a way that is considered rude or menacing.

“The stranger’s leer made her feel uncomfortable.”

2. noun

a look of this kind, especially one that is considered insulting or menacing.

“The villain’s leer sent shivers down the audience’s spine.”

3. verb

to gaze at something or someone with a mixture of amusement and disapproval.

“The gossip columnist’s article was full of leers at the celebrity’s fashion choices.”

4. noun

a contemptuous or disapproving glance.

“The critic’s leer at the new artwork was not kind.”