from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Frown \Frown\ (froun), v. i. [imp. & p. p. {Frowned} (fround);
p. pr. & vb. n. {Frowning}.] [OF. froignier, F. frogner, in
se refrogner, se renfrogner, to knit the brow, to frown;
perh. of Teutonic origin; cf. It. in frigno wrinkled,
frowning, Prov. It. frignare to cringe the face, to make a
wry face, dial. Sw. fryna to make a wry face,]
1. To contract the brow in displeasure, severity, or
sternness; to scowl; to put on a stern, grim, or surly
look.
[1913 Webster]
The frowning wrinkle of her brow. --Shak.
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2. To manifest displeasure or disapprobation; to look with
disfavor or threateningly; to lower; as, polite society
frowns upon rudeness.
[1913 Webster]
The sky doth frown and lower upon our army. --Shak.
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