Looking at someone with an unpleasant, sly, or lustful expression, often making them feel uncomfortable.
From Low German 'lēren' (to look) or possibly Scandinavian roots. The word entered English around the 1600s and originally meant 'to play the fool,' but evolved to describe a specific creepy type of look.
The word 'leer' perfectly captures a whole attitude in just four letters—it's one of those words where the sound almost matches the meaning, making that uncomfortable 'eee' sound that matches the uncomfortable feeling itself!
Leering has historically been gendered male, with the gaze framed as predatory masculinity. Female desire expressed visually is rarely described as 'leering,' revealing asymmetric moral judgment.
Use with attention to who is described as leering — avoid defaulting to male perpetrator narratives. Apply equally regardless of gender.
["gazing intently","staring","ogling"]
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