Definition of scowl

The origin of the word "scowl" can be traced back to the Middle English language, around the 14th century. The word's earliest form was "scoulen" or "sculen," meaning "to howl" or "to snarl." This primitive form of the word is believed to have originated from the Old Norse term "skula," which referred to the sound of howling wolves. This Old Norse word was also adopted by the Old English language in the form "skulan," meaning "to snarl." As Anglo-Saxon speakers encountered the Middle English word "scoulen" or "sculen," they adapted it to represent different expressions of anger and irritation. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to refer to a frown or a menacing facial expression. In modern times, the word "scowl" is used colloquially to describe a dark or menacing facial expression, often indicating feelings of anger, disapproval, or displeasure. In conclusion, the word "scowl" evolved from an old Norse word meaning "howling" to describe a menacing facial expression, highlighting the evolution of language and its relationship with cultural and historic context.