long face
1 of 1noun/ˈlɔŋ ˈfeɪs/
Forms:long faces
1
a disappointed or sad facial expression
The origin of the phrase "long face" can be traced back to the early 19th century. The term "long" has long been associated with a sense of sadness or melancholy in various idiomatic expressions. It is commonly employed in everyday conversations, informal interactions, and literature to depict a visible expression of sorrow or dejection. This phrase is often used when discussing or observing someone's emotional state, particularly when they are visibly downcast or lacking enthusiasm.
- Sarah walked into the room with a long face, her shoulders slumped and her eyes downcast, clearly affected by the recent bad news.
- Despite their attempts to hide it, the students couldn't help but wear long faces after receiving their disappointing exam results.
- His long face spoke volumes about his feelings of rejection and heartbreak as he watched his former partner walk away.
- The team returned to the locker room with long faces, their dreams of victory shattered by a last-minute defeat.
- When I told her we had to cancel our plans, she couldn't hide her long face, clearly disappointed by the sudden change of events.