Definition of expressionnext
1
as in voice
an act, process, or means of putting something into words the poem is his expression of his grief upon the loss of his beloved wife

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2
as in look
facial appearance regarded as an indication of mood or feeling we could tell by the fans' expressions that the Chicago Cubs had lost again

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3
as in term
a pronounceable series of letters having a distinct meaning especially in a particular field the expression "John Doe" is used in legal proceedings to refer to a person whose actual name is either unknown or being withheld from the public

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4
as in phrase
a sequence of words having a specific meaning the popular expression "raining cats and dogs" is meaningless in other languages

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of expression In a world where expression is abundant, value shifts toward the people and organizations capable of discernment. Darnley Merzier, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 Astrologically, the sun is home in vivacious Leo, allowing for its warmth, charisma and creative expression to flow effortlessly. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 29 July 2026 Album Artwork On Arirang‘s album artwork, the members stand with stoic expressions and dapper suits. Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 29 July 2026 The Spanish house’s Qixi campaign stars brand ambassador Jiang Qiming in three short films inspired by mime, exploring how affection is expressed through gestures, expressions and companionship. Denni Hu, Footwear News, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for expression
Recent Examples of Synonyms for expression
Noun
  • His voice has weathered over the years, but that only added character to songs built on grit and honesty.
    Jamie Graziano, Charlotte Observer, 31 July 2026
  • But the voice bellowing through the headset of quarterback Patrick Mahomes provides him an every-single-play reminder of Bieniemy’s absence.
    Sam McDowell Updated July 30, Kansas City Star, 30 July 2026
Noun
  • Meanwhile, the breathable linen pants keep the look comfortable in warmer destinations.
    Kaitlin Marks, Travel + Leisure, 4 Aug. 2026
  • We’re drawn to the eclectic look of these outdoor chairs, which layer aluminum, wood, and a touch of weather-resistant textile into the design.
    Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 3 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The club has reportedly agreed personal terms with Diomande, who is eager to make the move, and rival club PSG has withdrawn from the bidding.
    Tom Sanderson, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
  • Graham is serving in an interim role to fulfill her brother's current term.
    ABC News, ABC News, 1 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The randomness of the phrases is meant to be unpredictable, though the software bug present in Coldcard firmware—dating back to March 2021—meant the device was producing seeds with less randomness than advertised.
    Ty Roush, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026
  • But the phrase is a useful lens for this newer kind of Chinese statecraft—one of bottom-up investments that compound into interdependence and leverage.
    Natalia Cote-Muñoz, Foreign Affairs, 3 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The intramuscular formulation of penicillin was the only treatment that could prevent pregnant patients from passing syphilis to their newborns.
    Eric Boodman, STAT, 31 July 2026
  • Cofounded by Juliette Lailler and Marie Belile, Krème touts clean, creamy formulations and focuses on nourishing the skin’s microbiome, which shields against germs, pathogens and inflammation.
    Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 31 July 2026
Noun
  • Young newcomer Butarbuch M’Zaouki won many a heart in the audience with her big smile and an excited wave to the audience.
    Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 5 Aug. 2026
  • Omari Hutchinson arrives with a relaxed smile and a friendly handshake.
    Paul Taylor, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Chennai claimed him as Thala, a Tamil word meaning leader that functions as something closer to a title of devotion.
    Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 5 Aug. 2026
  • Later, the Taurus Moon enters your 3rd House of Communication, helping simple words calm the noise around you today.
    Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Holden Caulfield is made to tell his own story, in his own strange idiom.
    Book Marks, Literary Hub, 16 July 2026
  • Please put on your batteries — a Mexican Spanish idiom that means to cowboy up.
    Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Expression.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/expression. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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