from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
fleer \fleer\ (fl[=e]r), [imp. & p. p. {fleered} (fl[=e]rd); p.
pr. & vb. n. {fleering}.] [OE. flerien; cf. Scot. fleyr,
Norw. flira to titter, giggle, laugh at nothing, MHG. vlerre,
vlarre, a wide wound.]
1. To make a wry face in contempt, or to grin in scorn; to
deride; to sneer; to mock; to gibe; as, to fleer and
flout.
[1913 Webster]
To fleer and scorn at our solemnity. --Shak.
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2. To grin with an air of civility; to leer. [Obs.]
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Grinning and fleering as though they went to a bear
baiting. --Latimer.
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