expression

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the act of forcing something out by squeezing or pressing

   The expression of the zit was utterly satisfying.

2. 2
   noun

   the feelings expressed on a person's face

   a sad expression

3. 3
   noun

   expression without words

   tears are an expression of grief

4. 4
   noun

   the communication (in speech or writing) of your beliefs or opinions

   expressions of good will

5. 5
   noun

   a word or phrase that particular people use in particular situations

   pardon the expression

6. 6
   noun

   The action of expressing thoughts, ideas, feelings, etc.

   There are lots of great actresses who dress beautifully, but in the modern day, nearly all of them use stylists. They may know what they like—when they’re presented with gowns and outfits, they’re perfectly equipped to say yes or no—but you rarely get the sense that what they’re wearing is a true expression of who they are.

7. 7
   noun

   A colloquialism or idiom.

   The expression "break a leg!" should not be taken literally.

8. 8
   noun

   A facial appearance usually associated with an emotion.

   They stared at the newcomer with a puzzled expression.

Etymology

Borrowed from Middle French expression, from Late Latin expressiō, expressiōnem (“a pressing out”). Morphologically express + -ion.