as in solemn
not joking or playful in mood or manner
delivered the reprimand with a harsh and unsmiling face
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of unsmiling
Prima felt that there was something humiliating in Ruth’s loyalty to Thalia, and in her unsmiling scrutiny of Heiss.
—
Lillian Fishman, New Yorker, 4 May 2025
Soon after the baby is declared dead, Nina is blamed by the woman’s husband and Nina’s unsmiling supervisor (Merab Ninidze) launches an investigation into what went wrong.
—Tim Grierson, Los Angeles Times, 2 May 2025
On his first trip to the Holy See, Francis’ unsmiling welcome was seen as frigid and unfriendly; both encounters were markedly brief.
—Federico Perelmuter, The Dial, 13 Mar. 2025
But at that moment, looking up from the examination table at Tina, her dark hair framing her unsmiling face, Lilian neither hesitated nor flinched.
—Yiyun Li, The New Yorker, 9 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for unsmiling
Lillian Fishman, New Yorker, 4 May 2025
Soon after the baby is declared dead, Nina is blamed by the woman’s husband and Nina’s unsmiling supervisor (Merab Ninidze) launches an investigation into what went wrong.
—Tim Grierson, Los Angeles Times, 2 May 2025
On his first trip to the Holy See, Francis’ unsmiling welcome was seen as frigid and unfriendly; both encounters were markedly brief.
—Federico Perelmuter, The Dial, 13 Mar. 2025
But at that moment, looking up from the examination table at Tina, her dark hair framing her unsmiling face, Lilian neither hesitated nor flinched.
—Yiyun Li, The New Yorker, 9 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for unsmiling
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unsmiling
Adjective
-
Common observances on Good Friday Good Friday is one of the most solemn days in the Christian calendar, observed by millions worldwide during the Easter season.—
Brandi D. Addison,
Austin American Statesman,
2 July 2025
-
The moment was filled with conflicting emotions, a mix of gratitude and solemn reflection.—
Ashley Vega,
People.com,
15 July 2025
Adjective
-
But she and the remaining Storm family members are swept up into an inheritance game – her father’s last wish, organized by her father’s stern, handsome right-hand man.—
Clare Mulroy,
USA Today,
31 July 2025
-
John Doman, a seasoned TV actor whose work has included guest arcs on ER and Oz, got his first long-term gig with his role as the stern Deputy Rawls on The Wire.—
Derek Lawrence,
EW.com,
29 July 2025
Adjective
-
This surge in extreme heat drives up energy demand and poses serious health risks to vulnerable populations.—
Caitlin Looby,
jsonline.com,
24 July 2025
-
But her feelings begin to shift after Steven gets into a serious car accident.—
Monica Mercuri,
Forbes.com,
23 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Unsmiling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unsmiling. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share