1. To
show contempt by turning up the nose, or by a special
facial expression.
2. To inssinuate contempt by a covert expression; to
say derisively. "I could be
content to be a few sneared at." (Pope)
3. To
show mirth awkwardly.
The verb to
sneer implies to
cast contempt indirectly or by covert expressions. To jeer is stronger, and denotes the
use of different sarcastic reflections. To scoff is stronger still, implying the
use of
insolent mockery and derision.
Synonym: To scoff, gibe, jeer.
Origin: OE. Sneren, Dan. Snrre to snarl or grin (like a dog); cf. Prov. E. Sneer to grin, sner to snort, snert to
sneer at. See Snore.
Source: Websters Vocabulary