To simper

Does "simper" mean "to say or smile coyly"?
and is it commonly used?
thanks a lot more

I never heard of this word ( I am in the US ) till today and I thank you for enriching me.

"Etymology: perhaps of Scandinavian origin; akin to Danish dialect simper, affected, coy.
intransitive senses : to smile in a silly manner"

All this is true - I would add that I think it implies a sort of cunning element too; of artful fake innocence aimed at getting something.

It is in fairly common usage in the UK - that is my impression, anyway.

Replies

  • To simper ESC 05/September/04