moue: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowLiterary, somewhat formal; occasionally journalistic.
Quick answer
What does “moue” mean?
A pouting or grimacing expression, typically made to show dissatisfaction, mockery, or petulance.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A pouting or grimacing expression, typically made to show dissatisfaction, mockery, or petulance.
Often describes a deliberately exaggerated, small, and sometimes coquettish facial expression of mild protest or displeasure, involving pursed or turned-down lips.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word itself is used identically. No significant differences in meaning or application.
Connotations
In both varieties, it carries connotations of sophistication, literariness, and a degree of mannered expressiveness.
Frequency
Equally rare in both dialects, but perhaps marginally more likely to be encountered in British literary contexts due to its French origin.
Grammar
How to Use “moue” in a Sentence
make/with/pull a + mouemoue + of + [emotion noun]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Rare, except in literary or cultural criticism analyzing expression.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Would sound affected or jocular.
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “moue”
- Spelling: 'mou' or 'mow'. Pronunciation: pronouncing the final 'e' as /eɪ/. Part of speech: Using it as a verb (e.g., 'She moued') is non-standard and rare.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a low-frequency word primarily found in literary, descriptive, or sophisticated journalistic prose.
Standard dictionaries list it only as a noun. Using it as a verb (e.g., 'she moued') is very rare and non-standard.
A 'moue' is a specific type of pout, often more fleeting, self-conscious, and exaggerated. A pout can be more sustained and sullen. 'Moue' also implies a degree of affectation or playfulness.
It is pronounced like the word 'moo' (/muː/), rhyming with 'glue' or 'shoe'. The final 'e' is silent.
A pouting or grimacing expression, typically made to show dissatisfaction, mockery, or petulance.
Moue is usually literary, somewhat formal; occasionally journalistic. in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific. The word itself is descriptive.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: "Moo" like a cow. Imagine a child making a 'moo-ing' face with pursed lips when they don't get their way.
Conceptual Metaphor
DISSATISFACTION IS A FACIAL CONTRACTION / AFFECTATION IS A DELIBERATE FACIAL SHAPE.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'moue' LEAST likely to be appropriate?