fleering

1 definition found

fleering - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  fleer \fleer\ (fl[=e]r), [imp. & p. p. fleered (fl[=e]rd); p.
     pr. & vb. n. fleering.] [OE. flerien; cf. Scot. fleyr,
     Norw. flira to titter, giggle, laugh at nothing, MHG. vlerre,
     vlarre, a wide wound.]
     1. To make a wry face in contempt, or to grin in scorn; to
        deride; to sneer; to mock; to gibe; as, to fleer and
        flout.
        [1913 Webster]
  
              To fleer and scorn at our solemnity.  --Shak.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     2. To grin with an air of civility; to leer. [Obs.]
        [1913 Webster]
  
              Grinning and fleering as though they went to a bear
              baiting.                              --Latimer.
        [1913 Webster]