Dictionary entry

Frown

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Frown (froun), v. i. [imp. & p. p.Frowned (fround); p. pr. & vb. n.Frowning.] [OF. froignier, F. frogner, in se refrogner, se renfrogner, to knit the brow, to frown; perh. of Teutonic origin; cf. It. in frigno wrinkled, frowning, Prov. It. frignare to cringe the face, to make a wry face, dial. Sw. fryna to make a wry face,] 1. To contract the brow in displeasure, severity, or sternness; to scowl; to put on a stern, grim, or surly look.

The frowning wrinkle of her brow. Shak.

2. To manifest displeasure or disapprobation; to look with disfavor or threateningly; to lower; as, polite society frowns upon rudeness.

The sky doth frown and lower upon our army. Shak.