Eye roll Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈaʊ ˈrəʊl/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A facial gesture used to express exasperation, frustration, or indifference, characterized by a rolling of the eyes.

Examples

• She let out an eye roll as soon as her mom mentioned doing chores.
• The eye roll was a classic response from her to her friend’s bad joke.

Synonyms

• Sigh
• Roll your eyes
• Scoff

Antonyms

• Smile
• Laugh

Additional Information

The eye roll is a nonverbal cue that can convey a range of emotions, from annoyance to disinterest. It is often used in social situations to express a sense of frustration or boredom. Eye rolls can be subtle or exaggerated, depending on the context and the individual’s intent.

In some cultures, the eye roll is considered a polite way to express skepticism or doubt, while in others it is seen as a sign of disrespect. It is essential to consider the cultural context and the audience when interpreting or using the eye roll as a form of nonverbal communication.

Eye rolls can also be a way to express empathy or solidarity with someone who is experiencing frustration or disappointment. In this sense, the eye roll can be a powerful tool for building connections and understanding between people.

Despite its potential benefits, the eye roll can also be misinterpreted or overused, leading to misunderstandings or conflicts. As with any form of nonverbal communication, it is crucial to be aware of the nuances and context surrounding the eye roll to use it effectively and avoid unintended consequences.

Etymology

The origin of the term “eye roll” is unclear, but it is believed to have emerged in the mid-20th century as a colloquialism to describe the gesture.

Usage Notes

The eye roll is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, from everyday conversations to formal writing. However, it is essential to consider the audience and the tone you want to convey when using the eye roll.

In formal writing, it is often better to avoid using the eye roll or to rephrase it in a more formal tone. In everyday conversations, the eye roll can be a useful way to express your emotions and connect with others.

Cultural References

The eye roll has appeared in various forms of popular culture, including films, TV shows, and memes. It is often used to express frustration or exasperation, and its overuse can be a source of humor.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Eye roll is often used in idiomatic expressions such as “eye roll” itself, “rolling your eyes,” or “skeptical eye.” These phrases convey a sense of skepticism or doubt and are often used in everyday conversations.

Related Words or Phrases

Other words or phrases related to the eye roll include “sigh,” “shrug,” and “frown.” These terms convey similar emotions and are often used in combination with the eye roll to express a range of emotions.

Collocations

Common collocations with the eye roll include “roll your eyes,” “eye roll back,” and “give me an eye roll.” These phrases convey a sense of skepticism or frustration and are often used in everyday conversations.

Frequency of Use

The eye roll is a common term in modern language, with millions of searches and mentions on social media every day. Its frequency of use has increased significantly in recent years, likely due to the rise of social media and emoji keyboards.

Common Misspellings

Common misspellings of the eye roll include “irrowl,” “eyeroll,” and “eye role.” These misspellings reflect the varied ways in which people write or type this term, often without realizing the correct spelling.