# smiles

/ˈsmaɪɫz/ (US) · /smˈaɪlz/ (UK) · CEFR A1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/smiles
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

the happy expressions you make by turning up the corners of your mouth. People use them to show they are pleased or being friendly.

For teachers: facial expressions formed by flexing the muscles near both ends of the mouth, typically indicating pleasure, amusement, or sociability.

## Examples

- She always greets her neighbors with warm smiles.
- The photographer waited for the children to relax so their smiles would look natural in the family portrait.
- Despite the tension in the room, the negotiators maintained polite smiles to ensure the atmosphere remained conducive to a peaceful resolution.

## Usage notes

- The plural form of the noun; it can be used as a collective concept or to refer to multiple individual expressions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.