I. ˈgrimə̇s, grə̇ˈmās noun
( -s )
Etymology: French, from Middle French, alteration of grimache, of Germanic origin; akin to Old English grīma mask, helmet — more at grime
1. : a deliberate or involuntary distortion of the countenance expressive of some feeling (as contempt, disapprobation, complacency) : a wry face
gave a little grimace of disgust
2.
a. : artful show : affectation ; broadly : sham , pretense
b. archaic : an affected expression or attitude especially of formal good manners or exaggerated gentility
II. intransitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: French grimacer, from grimace, n.
: to make grimaces : distort one's face : make faces
• grimac·er -sə(r) noun -s