Looking at someone with suspicion, doubt, or disapproval; sideways or with a skeptical glance.
Origin uncertain, possibly from Old Norse á skaens (on the side) or from Middle English askaunce. The word evolved to mean both a sideways glance and the suspicious attitude that accompanies it, making it both literal and figurative.
Shakespeare used this word in 'Othello,' and it perfectly captures what a single sideways look can communicate—the idea that our bodies betray our true feelings even when we stay silent. Language scholars love how it bridges body language and emotion!
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