simper: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Literary/Formal
Quick answer
What does “simper” mean?
To smile in a foolish, affected, or self-conscious way, typically with a slight raising of the corners of the mouth and the lips closed.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To smile in a foolish, affected, or self-conscious way, typically with a slight raising of the corners of the mouth and the lips closed.
To express or behave with affected or insincere gentleness, meekness, or coyness; to speak with a simpering tone or manner.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major difference in meaning or usage. Possibly slightly more common in British literary contexts.
Connotations
Identical in both varieties: negative, suggesting affectation, smugness, or foolish coyness.
Frequency
Low-frequency word in both varieties, used primarily in literary, descriptive, or critical contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “simper” in a Sentence
[Subject] simpers.[Subject] simpers at [Object].[Subject] simpered, "[Quoted Speech]."Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “simper” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She simpered at the headteacher, hoping for a favour.
- He simpered his way through the apology, irritating everyone.
American English
- The politician simpered at the cameras during the softball interview.
- Stop simpering and give me a straight answer.
adverb
British English
- She smiled simperingly at the judge.
- He agreed simperingly, with no real conviction.
American English
- The assistant nodded simperingly at every word the boss said.
- He apologized simperingly.
adjective
British English
- Her simpering manner was unbearable.
- He gave a simpering laugh.
American English
- I can't stand his simpering attitude.
- She dismissed him with a simpering remark.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might be used critically in describing unprofessional, ingratiating behavior.
Academic
Rare. Used in literary criticism or character analysis.
Everyday
Very rare. Considered a high-register, descriptive word.
Technical
Not used in technical contexts.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “simper”
- Using it to mean a genuine, pleasant smile. Using it without a negative connotation. Spelling as 'simpper'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Almost never. Its core meaning carries a negative judgment of the smile as affected, foolish, coy, or insincere.
Both are negative. A 'smirk' is often smug, self-satisfied, or scornful. A 'simper' is more often coy, ingratiating, weakly affected, or foolishly genteel.
No. It is a low-frequency, literary word. In everyday conversation, people are more likely to say "smirk" or describe the behavior (e.g., "smile in a silly way").
Yes. As a noun, it refers to the smile itself (e.g., "She gave a vacant simper"). The usage and connotation are the same as the verb.
To smile in a foolish, affected, or self-conscious way, typically with a slight raising of the corners of the mouth and the lips closed.
Simper is usually literary/formal in register.
Simper: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsɪmpə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsɪmpər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None common. Occasionally found in phrases like 'simper and bow' to describe obsequious behavior.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a SIMPle, foolish person putting on a PERVerse smile = SIMPER.
Conceptual Metaphor
AFFECTATION IS A FALSE FACE; INSINCERITY IS A MASQUERADE.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary connotation of the verb 'to simper'?