pout
B2Informal to neutral. More common in descriptive and conversational contexts than in formal writing.
Definition
Meaning
To push one's lips or bottom lip forward in an expression of displeasure, sulking, or sensuality.
To show irritation, disappointment, or petulant dissatisfaction through facial expression; to protrude or swell outward.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
As a noun, primarily refers to the facial expression itself. As a verb, describes the action of making this expression, often implying a childlike or exaggerated sulk. Can also describe the protrusion of certain objects.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in core meaning or usage. The verb form is standard in both varieties.
Connotations
Universally carries connotations of childishness, petulance, or exaggerated moodiness. In certain contexts (e.g., fashion photography), it can denote a stylised, sensual lip pose.
Frequency
Comparable frequency in both dialects. Possibly slightly more common in descriptions of children's behaviour.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Someone] pouts.[Someone] pouts at [someone/something].[Someone] gives a pout.Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Lip service pout (rare, play on words)”
- “Pout like a child (descriptive phrase)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare. Might be used metaphorically: 'The markets pouted at the news.'
Academic
Very rare except in literary analysis or psychological studies of expression.
Everyday
Common, especially when describing children or someone being playfully/slightly annoyingly moody.
Technical
Used in photography/directing ('Give me a pout'), cosmetology ('lip-plumping pout'), or ichthyology (a type of fish).
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- When he didn't get the last biscuit, he pouted for an hour.
- Don't pout, darling, we'll go to the park later.
American English
- She pouted when she found out the movie was sold out.
- He's just pouting because his team lost.
adverb
British English
- She looked at him poutingly from across the room.
- (Rare)
American English
- 'But I wanted to go,' she said poutingly.
- (Rare)
adjective
British English
- She had a pouty expression after the meeting was cancelled.
- (Rare as pure adjective; usually 'pouting')
American English
- The toddler gave a pouty look when his toy was taken.
- The model's pouty lips were famous.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The baby pouts when she is tired.
- He has a big pout.
- She pouted because she couldn't go to the party.
- Stop pouting and tell me what's wrong.
- His constant pouting whenever he doesn't get his way is quite immature.
- The politician was accused of pouting after his electoral defeat.
- Her artfully constructed pout in the photograph conveyed both allure and defiance.
- The child's pout, a perfect protrusion of wounded pride, was almost comical.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'OUT' – you push your lips OUT when you pout.
Conceptual Metaphor
DISCONTENT/DISAPPOINTMENT IS A PHYSICAL PROTRUSION (of the lips).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Not equivalent to 'дуться' in all contexts, as 'дуться' implies a more prolonged, internalised sulk. 'Pout' is the specific facial action. Avoid using 'pout' for general sadness.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'pout' to describe genuine, deep sadness instead of a petulant expression. Confusing 'pout' (lips) with 'frown' (eyebrows/whole mouth).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'pout' LEAST likely to be used appropriately?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, but it most commonly describes childlike behaviour. Adults can pout, but it often implies they are being immature or playful.
'Pout' specifically refers to the lip expression. 'Sulk' is a broader term for being silently miserable or resentful, which may include pouting.
Yes, in fashion or romantic contexts, a 'pout' can describe a sexy, full-lipped expression without the negative sulking connotation.
Yes, 'pout' is also a noun: 'She had a noticeable pout on her face.'