Snarling

Part of speech: verb, adjective

Definitions

1. The expression of anger or threat through harsh vocalizations often accompanied by fierce facial expressions A manner of communication that embodies aggression or contempt An aggressive sound, typically associated with animals, signaling displeasure or warning
2. A harsh growling sound made to show anger or warning ; a facial look expressing hostility or displeasure
3. An angry or threatening noise often made by animals or humans ; a scowling or fierce expression on the face

Etymology: "Snarling" is the form of "snarl" that describes an animal or person growling with bared teeth, or wearing a fierce scowl. The verb goes back to Middle English "snarlen", a frequentative (a verb built to repeat an action) of the earlier "snar", meaning "to growl", which is probably imitative of a harsh rattling sound and related to German "schnarren", "to rattle".

Synonyms: growling, grumbling, snapping, glaring, hissing

Antonyms: calm, soothing