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moue

/mu/
IPA guide

Other forms: moues

A moue is a grimace you make with your lips. If you make this expression, you're usually showing distaste, petulance, or a similar emotion. Moue is also used, however, to refer to a flirtatious pout.

The word moue is pronounced "moo," like the sound a cow makes, although the origin of the word has nothing to do with cows. Instead, the noun moue comes from the Middle Dutch word mouwe, which meant a protruding lip. You can make a moue of displeasure when someone steals your parking spot or give a coy moue when you're trying to get away with something. Either way, you're pouting.

Definitions of moue
  1. noun
    a disdainful grimace
    synonyms: pout, wry face
    see moresee less
    type of:
    face, grimace
    a contorted facial expression
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