smiling
n. uncountable A1 Beginner US //ˈsmaɪɫɪŋ// UK //smˈaɪlɪŋ// smil·ing
n. the act of making a happy expression with your mouth. It is a way to show people that you are friendly or pleased.
n. the act of forming a smile on the face. Often functions as a gerund to describe the physical expression of pleasure, amusement, or sociability.
Smiling is a great way to make new friends.
The photographer noticed that natural smiling looks much better in portraits than a forced expression.
Research suggests that the physical act of smiling can actually trigger a release of dopamine, effectively improving the subject's mood through a biological feedback loop.
Usage
Typically used as an uncountable gerund to describe the activity or state; specific instances are usually referred to as 'smiles'.