leer
UK: lɪə | US: lɪr
v. to look at someone with an unpleasant, sly, or suggestive expression
n. a sly, sidelong glance expressing malice, lust, or smugness
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The word "leer" originates from Middle English leren, meaning "to look askance or sideways," likely derived from Old English hlēor, referring to the cheek or face. Over time, it evolved to describe a sidelong glance laden with negative connotations (malice, lust, or smugness). The shift from a neutral facial reference to a suggestive or malicious gaze reflects societal associations with indirect or untrustworthy expressions.
The stranger gave her a creepy leer from across the bar.
He couldn’t help but leer at the provocative poster.
Her boss’s constant leer made her uncomfortable at work.
The villain’s leer revealed his sinister intentions.
She ignored the man’s leer and walked away briskly.