Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
nervous-smile
noun
/ˈnɜːrvəs smaɪl/
Definition
A smile that occurs in response to anxiety or discomfort rather than happiness.
Examples
- She offered a nervous smile when she walked into the crowded room.
- His nervous smile betrayed his uncertainty during the presentation.
- After hearing the joke, she couldn’t help but give a nervous smile, not sure how to respond.
Meaning
A nervous smile is often a reflex action that signifies unease or a lack of confidence, rather than a true expression of joy.
Synonyms
- awkward smile
- discomfort smile
- hesitant smile
